Time to rest after serving SAPS for 41 years
His colleagues described Warrant Officer, Patrick Nelwalani as an exemplary officer.
LIMPOPO – After 41 years in the South African Police Service, W/O Patrick Nelwalani (60) retired a fortnight ago.
Nelwalani joined the SAPS in 1979 as a constable and worked at various stations until he retired at Tshilwavhusiku.Nelwalani said that he was satisfied that he had served his country with dedication and faithfulness.
“Although it was not always easy, I persevered until I had paved my way to success. I would also like to thank my former co-workers and subordinates for their support, because I would not have achieved everything on my own. Above all, I would like to thank God, whose grace has made me what I am to this day,” he said.
Nelwalani added that the job had always been good to him and, during his career in the police, he believed he had worked well with everyone.
He also advised young police officers to “stay dedicated to their job, and to never accept bribes”.
The Station Commissioner of Tshilwavhusiku, Lt-Col Mapefo Matshavha, described Nelwalani as a well-mannered policeman and a good teacher, and proposed that others copy his example.She added that it would be difficult to replace him.Matshavha depicted him as a true and professional policeman, who had dedicated his life to the fight against crime. She described Nelwalani as an asset, whose dedication and work experience would be missed.
“He is irreplaceable, but we are happy because he has paved the way and we are enjoying the fruits of his hard labour today. We will always remember him as a father, whose wisdom will always drive us to work hard,” she said.
