New MP head leads fight against crime
The challenge is the lack of manpower and what we want to achieve will take time.
Amanzimtoti and Isipingo have a new weapon to combat law breakers in superintendent Hennie Nell, 60, who has been appointed as Metro Police’s commander for the southern areas. “My focus in the South will be a 50/50 split between crime and traffic and we are working hand-in-hand with SAPS,” he said.
Hennie was born in Johannesburg and did his schooling there. “I always wanted to be a traffic cop and I did my training and started my career in Johannesburg in 1978.” His family moved to Toti in 1994. Gauteng’s loss was KZN’s gain when Hennie started his shift at Queensburgh Protection Services, an amalgamation of traffic and fire.
In 2000 it was changed to Metro Police and he moved from Queensburgh to Durban, Chatsworth and finally Isipingo when he took up the reigns as commander on 1 September. “I have seen big changes at Metro Police over the years. I think us becoming a police force has been a positive change.”
Hennie is in charge of 120 officers based at Isipingo and Umlazi, who look after Isipingo, Toti, Umkomaas and Umlazi. “The challenge is the lack of manpower. What we want to achieve will take time. I would love to be out there 24/7, but it is not feasible. If the public has any complaints, bring it to my attention. You are welcome to phone our call centre on 031-361-0000 or email me at hennie@durban.gov.za.”
READ ALSO: Tribute to fallen Amanzimtoti officer
He is happily married to Hannetjie and both his daughters are teachers – Wendy, 35, is in Johannesburg, while Mandy, 32, teaches in Durban. The apple of his eye, his grandson Cowen, 4, lives in Johannesburg and Hennie tries to see him at least once a month.
He is a member of Amanzimtoti Athletics Club and was once a long distance runner who has completed four Comrades Marathons with a best time of 11.58 that he achieved in his last run in 2009. He has also completed the 21km Two Oceans.
Due to knee trouble, he swapped his running gear for cycling shorts and is also a member of Amanzimtoti Cycling Club in both road and MTB disciplines. He has finished eight Cape Argus. “In my down time I love rock and surf fishing and spending time with my loved ones, as we are a close-knit family.
READ ALSO: Amanzimtoti bush raid nets undesirables
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