Station commander says goodbye

Exactly three years ago, the Vryheid Herald announced that Colonel Hein Potgieter took over the reigns as station commander at Vryheid SAPS. Col Potgieter also celebrated 40 years’ service in the SAPS on May 1. Sadly, the Herald once again has to announce another milestone in Col Potgieter’s life, but this time around, it is his retirement and move at the end of June to Marina Beach on the South Coast.

During his time at Vryheid police station, Potgieter, together with his colleagues and the community, made a difference by lowering crime statistics. He never shied away from the overall high crime that continuously haunts the AbaQulusi area. Potgieter commended the community and specifically AfriForum, where he makes special mention of Rich Verster and Speedy van Rensburg for their assistance, especially with sensitive operations, but also for their contribution to Vryheid’s Emergency Plan. He continued by mentioning André Rheder and his team from Vryheid Neighbourhood Watch, Amakosi Mdlalose and chairperson Masondo from the Othaka Traditional Council for their positive contributions. “These organisations assisted in lowering crime in the area,” he said. Furthermore, he is grateful for the Business Forum’s involvement, as well as the Vryheid 911 centre, not forgetting each and every community member for assisting the police. “Without the community and their reporting of crime, we would not have been able to achieve a lower crime rate or do our jobs properly.” He urges the community to get involved with one of the above organisations, since they can make a difference together with the police. He refers back to the looting, when Vryheid was unharmed because it was protected by these organisations and community members, and mentions that this is an example of a community that stands together.

So what’s next for the commander? Col Potgieter will keep himself busy with handiwork at his newly-purchased house while relaxing and camping at places he always wanted to visit. He wants to focus on his running and says he will definitely attempt the Comrades Marathon again next year. Sadly, this year, he had the flu and couldn’t complete his 31st race.

Vryheid will miss your friendly face and helpfulness, but enjoy your retirement, Colonel Potgieter, you deserve it!
Lieutenant Colonel Mzimela will be the acting station commander until further notice.

ALSO READ: VRYHEID KZN: New face in the station commander’s chair

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.