In the annals of law enforcement, the stories of courage, resilience, and dedication often shine brightest when they come from those who have not only served but also blazed trails for others to follow. This article is a tribute to one such remarkable individual-my mother. Her journey in the police force is not just a narrative of professional excellence but also a testament to the indomitable spirit of women in law enforcement.
From the moment she donned her uniform, my mother exemplified the qualities that are the bedrock of effective policing: integrity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to justice. She faced the challenges of her role with a blend of grace and tenacity, breaking through barriers and setting new standards for what women in the police force can achieve.
Her story is one of inspiration and empowerment, illustrating that the path to making a difference is paved with determination and courage. As you read about her experiences, may you find motivation and encouragement to pursue your own careers with the same fervour and dedication. Let her legacy remind us all that the strength and potential of female police officers are boundless.
To all the women serving in law enforcement today, and to those who aspire to join their ranks, this article is for you. May it inspire you to reach new heights and continue to make a profound impact in your communities.
With deepest respect and admiration.
Kind Regards.
Haseena Khan
LLB (Law), BHSc (Hons), BSc
Assoc Compliance Specialist, PPCM
Global Quality & Compliance
PPD, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific
PPD Africa & Middle East
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL RUKAHIA BIBI KHAN
[RBK] - A WOMAN OF INDOMITABLE SPIRIT
“You were born with potential. You were born with Goodness and trust. You were born with ideals and dreams. You were born with greatness. You were born with wings. You were not meant for crawling, so don’t. You have wings. Learn to use them and fly.” - Rumi
(Researched, authored, set out and forwarded for publication by [LG] with the information obtained from [RBK], other individuals and police members.
Photograph 02
Logan Govender – [LG]
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Rukahia BiBi Khan in uniform and on her 60th birthday
INSERT BY LIEUTENANT-COLONEL RUKAHIA BIBI KHAN
Thanking Allah for my amazing journey in the SA Police Services from 20 January 1981 to 31 October 2021. It has been a journey of hope and abundant blessings. In my 40 years of service, I worked with and learnt from people of all races and cultures. Most people were warm-hearted and made me feel special. I always focus on the positive and remember and pray for these kind souls. Amazing Journey in the SA Police Services from 1981-01-20 to 2021-10-31. A journey of hope. In my 40 years of service I worked with people of all races and most people were good and warm hearted and made me feel special. I always focus on the positive and remember and pray for these kind souls.
The Station Commander at SAPS Mount Edgecombe was W/Officer Breytenbach, late. Mrs Shaik was the first clerk appointed at SAPS Mount Edgecombe. I had met Mrs Shaik by pure co-incidence, and she informed me of the vacancy at Mount Edgecombe. I was recruited by Sergt Vinod Singh. Sergeant Vinod Singh was later promoted to Warrant Officer. W/Officer Singh was experienced in all facets of administration in the SAPS. He passed on his expertise to me and all the civilian ladies employed at Mount Edgecombe. W/Officer Vinod Singh treated all members and civilian members fairly. He had the utmost respect for the civilian females who worked under his command. In 1990 Warrant Officer Singh left the SA Police Service and joined the Ministry in the church as a Pastor.
I remember Warrant Officer Vally as a very disciplined and dedicated police officer. I learnt various aspects of policing under Captain Vally. He was later promoted and transferred to SAPS Tongaat where he retired.
Mark Moonsamy worked enquiry staff, so I didn’t work directly with him. However, I found Mark Munsamy to be a jovial person.
04
SA Police, Mount Edgecombe, the old station (Source Captain Hansraj)
According to the Editor in Chief of Nongqai, his Dad, Constable Abraham Faure Heymans, late (Sergeant) was stationed at SA Police, Mount Edgecombe during the 1940’s as a single member. He was married on 1945-05-09 and was transferred to Durban, due to the lack of accommodation for White married members. He was replaced by Constable CF Zietsman, late (Lieutenant General SOO SOE, former Chief Deputy Commissioner, Detective Branch. – [LG])
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05 Constable AF Heymans (Source, Nongqai archives)
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06
(Source, Nongqai archives)
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Lieutenant General CF Zietsman
INTRODUCTION
Rukahia Bibi Khan was born in Tongaat, Kwa-Zulu Natal on 1961-10-18. She attended Fairbreeze Primary School and thereafter Tongaat Victoria Primary School for a short while before attending Buffelsdale Secondary School, where she completed Standard 10 (Matric) in 1979.
In 1980 Khan she served a few months at Natest Primary School, Mount Edgecombe as a locum teacher.
Khan began her career as a clerk at SAPS Mount Edgecombe on 1981-01-20. (The station was popularly known as “Whitehouse” by the local inhabitants. She was recruited by one Sergeant Vinod Singh, (Warrant Officer. He was the station clerk of the time. – [LG]).
NATEST PRIMARY SCHOOL
Campbells Town had a Primary School which was built with the meagre earnings of the workers of the Sugar Estates for the education of children of their Indian workers. It was called the Natest Primary School.
Photograph 07
Second row, standing, left to right 8th RB Khan or 4th from right
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Natest Primary School
(Source, Post Friday, October 18, 2024)
“NATEST PRIMARY CELEBRATES TURNING 60: FOREBEARS KNEW EDUCATION WAS KEY TO ESCAPE POVERTY AND MISERY
The school was built with contributions from the meagre earnings of workers from the Natal sugar plantation estates and sugar mill community of Mount Edgecombe, whose livelihood depended on the existence of the mill.
"In spite of the hardships of our forebears, they knew that education was the key to our escape from poverty and misery," said Naidoo.
"The focus on good education and the courage to forge ahead despite little or no assistance from the erstwhile apartheid government resulted in many of the poor families of Mount Edgecombe becoming part of a mostly successful middle-class community.
‘The school has a proud history of producing many successful community leaders, sports people and professionals from throughout the 60 years of existence.’
Natest Primary School is described as a beacon of hope and is continuously striving for excellence. A school which is committed in delivering quality teaching and learning to all learners. This school is located in the epicentre of Campbell’s Town in Mount Edgecombe. It was established 55 years ago by the descendants of indentured labourers from the local sugarcane plantations and sugar mill.
The school was built with the contributions from the meagre earnings of workers from the Natal sugar plantation estates and sugar mill community of Mount Edgecombe and stand testaments to the perseverance, dedication and love for education by the indentured labourers.
Despite of the hardships experienced by these indentured labourers, they knew that education was the solution, to liberate the people from hardships, misery, illiteracy and poverty.
It was regarded as Madiba’s School. Mr. Nelson Mandela visited the school in 1997. The focus on the deliverance of good and quality education was their dream and goal despite receiving little assistance from the, then apartheid government. This was aligned to Madiba famous quotation, “Education is the greatest weapon that can be used to change the world. “The passion for Education of the indentured labourers had a positive impact on the poor families of Mount Edgecombe as they became part of a successful middle-class community. As our very own Mahatma Ghandi said, “Be the change, you want to see in the world”
‘The school has a proud history of producing many successful community leaders, sports people and professionals over the 60 years of existence.’ We salute every single member for their visions and dreams for making education available to all and for adding value to their community by upholding strong values and moulding and nurturing young minds for the future.”
During February 1978, Singh reported to Mount Edgecombe for duty after been transferred from SA Police, Erasmia, Pretoria-West District. The Station Commander of Mount Edgecombe was Sergeant Casper Semmer Breytenbach. There were only two other Indian members based there at the time; Constables Tom Applesamy and Mark Moonsamy. The station fell under the command of the District Commandant, Durban North District, based in Ridge Road, Durban.
According to information available the police station has been in existence since the 19th century. It is more than 100 years old. It had a corrugated, wood and iron construction with whitewashed walls that was once used as horse stables – later occupied by the enquiry staff. It was probably one of the oldest police stations in the Republic. No renovations whatsoever, was done to the building. It stands precisely as it did in the 19th century.
(After the station was vacated Singh was inducted as a Pastor of a local assembly of Christian Believers who leased the previously occupied enquiry offices, where Church Services were conducted. –[LG])
During 1981 Khan encountered several senior Indian members, Warrant Officers Moonsamy; Goruknath; Vally; Captain (Noddy) Prithveraj Deoraj; MP Govender; Sookdeo;
Sergeant Beeputh, Vinod Singh, Ahmed Ken Bruce Mohanraj and Sykes Pillay. Later KB Naidoo; MI Aziz; Ajith Hansraj; Ravi Naicker; Chander; Mungroo, Kisten and others joined. They were considered as the learned and stalwart members of SA Police, Mount Edgecombe by all the members of the station, surrounding stations in the Durban North District and the communities of Mount Edgecombe, Cornubia and Campbells Town
Photograph 09
Ahmed Ken Bruce Mohanraj
Warrant Officer (Apostle) Vinod Singh
(Source, Warrant Officer Vinod Singh)
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INSERT BY WARRANT OFFICER VINOD SINGH
It has been such an honour to have worked with Rukahia Khan for over 9 years. I remember the day she commenced her first day of work on 20 January 1981 at SAPS Mount Edgecombe She was employed as a Clerical Assistant working in the administrative office. She was very hardworking and always doing her task with excellence especially when detailed with typing. Always full of smiles and pleasant to communicate with. It was a pleasure working with her from 1981-01-20 until I resigned during 1990 at SAPS Phoenix. I am indeed proud of her achievements and promotion through the ranks. My best wishes and salute to Lt. Colonel Khan. God bless you.
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Mrs Daisy Deoraj, late (Wife of Captain Deoraj, (she was also an employee at SA Police, Mount Edgecombe) and Captain (Noddy) Prithveraj Deoraj
(Source, Captain (Noddy) Prithveraj Deoraj)
INSERT BY CAPTAIN PRITHVERAJ
(NODDY) DEORAJ
In anticipation of the occupation of the new station based at Phoenix additional staff members were inducted. The first Indian female clerks were employed. Mrs Shaik was employed first. Rukahia, Ruby and Mrs Daisy Deoraj followed. Thereafter Romilla and Meena were employed. Rukahia was a pleasant person and eager to learn. She was most effective and efficient with the administrative duties and worked in close co-operation with the Station Commander, Sergeant Casper Semmer Breytenbach, later Major JH Van Wyk and his clerk Sergeant Vinod Singh. She was ever willing to assist those that required her expertise and assistance. Clerks that were employed after her were placed under her tutelage and supervision. She was tasked to compile amongst other monthly returns the Crime Return (SAP 6). Her attitude and disposition towards all, both superiors and subordinates were extremely good. She assisted the community by completing their claims for restitution resulting from the looting in the Inanda Riots during 1985. It did not come as a surprise that she eventually applied for a lateral transfer and joined the South African Police Service in a functional capacity and eventually graduated, retired after 40 years of service as a Lieutenant-Colonel. Well done, Rukahia! I am so proud of your achievements. Thank you for all your co-operation and kindness towards me. Enjoy your retirement which was well earned and deserved. May Allah continue to bless and you.
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Group photograph of members of Mount Edgecombe circa 1980’s. From left to right, Romilla; RB Khan; Warrant Officer Breytenbach; Ruby; Daisy, late; Meena, late.
Photograph 13
Group photograph of members of the SA Police, Mount Edgecombe W/Officer Vally seated with the four ladies. Photograph taken circa 1980’s – [RBK].
Seated, Daisy, late; Warrant Officer Vally
Standing, RB Khan, left.
Seated, Ruby; Romilla; standing to the right Meena, late
I was reinstated on the 1982-10-04 into the South African Police and was posted to SA Police, Mount Edgecombe (popularly known as "Whitehouse" Police station. This was a small, whitewashed walls, wood and iron police station situated on a hilltop with a dirt road leading from the old North Coast Road.
Photograph 14
Colonel G (Sykes) Pillay
(Source, Colonel G (Sykes) Pillay)
15
Warrant Officer Vinod Singh standing alongside the SA Police, Mount
Rukahia Bibi and her husband Adam at their marriage
INANDA RIOTS 17 AUGUST 1985
During 1985 unrest erupted in Inanda and police members throughout the Durban North District were mobilized and rushed to the area in an attempt to save lives, protect and quell it from worsening or getting out of control. However,many lives were lost, homes of Indians were torched to the ground and both homes and businesses were looted.
Khan a civilian employee at the time was basically involved in administrative duties and assisted with processing of applications for claims for compensation from the State for the damage and loss suffered by individuals.
(Accounts of the riots obtained from various police members were written from their individual perspective I took the liberty of utilising the accounts of some of the victims themselves and hope it puts the riots into perspective. –[LG])
Mr Rajen Rambhookan
“The pounding on my door in the early hours of the 17 August 1985 sounded ominous and urgent. In my dreamy state I opened the door. I saw some familiar faces with terror etched on their faces. They were the bearers of horrendous tidings that the blacks were attacking Indians in Inanda, burning their houses, looting their possessions and taking over their homes.
For three days the reign of terror persisted. Virtually the entire Indian population that lived in Inanda which stretched for some 30 kilometres from lower Inanda at Phoenix Cash Store through to Upper Inanda, past SS Govender’s store, witnessed scenes of utter destruction with homes being burnt indiscriminately. The Indians who had settled in this part of the world over a century ago surviving as farmers, labourers, gardeners, transport operators and businessmen amongst others had to flee with only the clothes they had on, losing their lifelong possessions.
As the news of the unprovoked unrest spread across the land, stories of valiant rescue missions began to surface of how individuals ventured into the riot torn area to salvage whatever of value they could get. A few people even lost their lives,
Schools and community halls in Verulam and Phoenix were re-arranged as make shift homes for the hundreds of victims of the unrest whilst some lived with relatives. Family life was severely interrupted. Benefactors from far and wide rallied together by providing food and clothing.
The then President of this Welfare Society, Mr. D Ganesh and I as Vice President, arranged an emergency meeting with senior officials of the then House of Delegates in order to seek urgent assistance for the unrest victims. Fortunately, homes in the suburb of Caneside and Foresthaven units in Phoenix were almost reaching completion and these homes were already allocated to new owners. In view of this unforeseen catastrophe, the House of Delegates made these homes available to the Inanda refugees.
The Society played a pivotal role in identifying bona fide residents of Inanda by giving them letters of identification to qualify for houses. People were moved in batches and those who were left behind for a while became frustrated and critical. This transition period of victims moving out from their makeshift homes in the schools to their newly acquired homes in Phoenix lasted some two years. Concurrently, the Phoenix-Inanda Co-ordinating Committee was formed with Mr. Omie Singh, then a Democratic Party Councillor in Phoenix, as chairman, a few concerned former residents of Inanda and Mr. Ganesh and I representing this Child Welfare Society. The primary purpose of this committee was to liaise with other government departments in assisting the victims to start building their future.
This Committee led a delegation to the President’s Council in Pretoria to request financial assistance for the unrest victims. After much discussion and motivation the Council agreed to assist victims
with R800.00 per family, paid over two installments of R400 each. Whilst this meagre amount did little to quench the financial thirst it was a welcome relief to most that had lost all their possessions. Duffs Road Child and Family Welfare Society was tasked in identifying all bona fide residents of Inanda in order to ensure that these funds were not abused. However, there are a few who tried their luck. The process of identification and reaching finality in this massive exercise was a long and laborious one. The chief magistrate of Verulam was the primary guardian of the allocated funds. The members of this Society worked tirelessly during this period to ensure that this cumber stone and painful process benefited the real victims.
As we look back, some 28 years later, we proudly acknowledge the humanitarian work done by our members. This Society, since 1985 has devoted much of its reserves to assist the ex-Inanda residents with food hampers, furniture and clothing. Many of these families have rebuilt their lives, their families and their homes.
Up to this day, the cause of the unrest orchestrated by some individuals, has still to be unravelled. Today Inanda is populated entirely by blacks. It is hoped that the Inanda Riots was the last incident of the inter-racial strife as we endeavour to face the years free from racial barriers or hate.”
“THE
TRAUMA OF INANDA’S 1985 VIOLENCE RELIVED
(Source, Published Aug 21, 2020 POST)
Durban - THIS month marked 35 years since the violence in Inanda. But for the victims, there has been no closure. Now, those who are still alive are coming together to lobby the government to launch an investigation to find out what caused the mayhem and death. Inanda was once the home of Mahatma Gandhi, the man who gave the world the concept of nonviolence. For decades Indians and Africans had lived as neighbours. Then, on August 6, 1985, violence shattered the peace. For two days, homes and shops were looted and set alight. Gandhi’s home and a school that bore his wife’s name were also destroyed.
More than 1 500 Indian families lost everything as they fled their homes. Three men were killed. According to historian Omar Badsha, who went to Inanda after anti-apartheid activist Fatima Meer contacted him, there were powerful political entities who were interested in the land.
“These entities wanted the land for housing so they could get rent. Others were out to get the businesses, so they began agitating.”
Badsha said Mpondo residents were also forced to leave.
A paper, titled “Violence In Inanda: August 1985” by Professor Heather Hughes, was published in the Journal of Southern African Studies. Hughes said the bodies of three Indian men were found burnt. “They were all from the same family, a father, his son and his brother-in-law.”
She said while political organisations denied any involvement in the riot, the IFP’s Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi had said there was a lot of resentment because some Indians had participated in the new Tricameral Parliament.
“Smaller parties such as those connected to the House of Delegates also blamed students and the UDF for the violence.”
Deochand Ganesh, who was the president of the Inanda Child and Family Welfare Society at the time, witnessed the violence. Now 81, Ganesh was responsible for distributing relief packages and the allocation of homes in Phoenix to those left homeless.
“At about 11pm on August 6, some of the residents from Inanda fled and came to my place in nearby Duffs Road seeking help. We went to the epicentre of the riots where people were mobilising, and we got politicians on the line, as well as the authorities.”
Ganesh, who said the riots started unexpectedly, was asked not to return to the area because it was dangerous.
“Helpless families were pounced upon. Their houses were looted and burnt. Rioters infused terror in the defenceless, stealing whatever was portable.”
He said the riots were worse in central Inanda near government-aided schools.
“Acts of arson and looting carried on unabated for two days, spreading like wildfire. Motor vehicles and other possessions were burnt.
“The riots appeared to be clandestinely planned. The owner of Ramgobin’s Garage told me that people bought petrol in containers although they did not own vehicles.”
Ganesh said families who fled by car were taken to various places of safety in Phoenix and Verulam.
“They were housed in community and school halls under trying circumstances. My organisation, the Inanda Indian Child and Family Welfare Society, sprang into action. We sought the help of the police and politicians, like Baldeo Dookie and Amichand Rajbansi, to get the House of Delegates to assist.”
The Inanda Relief Fund - under the chairmanship of YS Chinsamy, KT Manjee and others - raised funds to provide relief to those living at the Brindhaven Secondary School Hall in Verulam and the Greenbury Community Hall in Phoenix.
“Mr S Ramkisson and I served on this committee. We were tasked with identifying the victims who were displaced. This went beyond two years.”
Ganesh said no investigation or inquiry was conducted to determine what led to the riots.
He said most of the 1985 refugees had settled in Caneside and Foresthaven in Phoenix.
“While some have progressed, many still suffer the ravages of that dark period in history.”
Pravesh Naipal was 18 when his parents and siblings fled their home. Naipal, who now lives in Sea Cow Lake, is co-ordinating the new 1985 Inanda Riots Victims initiative.
“This is aimed at bringing former residents together to pursue the truth behind the unrest and to seek reparations from the government.”
Naipal said he was 6 when his family relocated from Durban North to Inanda because of the Group Areas Act. “We lived in a four-bedroom house without electricity or running water. We lived in peace and perfect harmony. We used to get potable water from the Shembe church. When the annual Shembe dance took place, the vendors used our yard.”
He said most of the children attended the Kasturba Gandhi Primary School, while others attended the Inanda Primary School.
“In August 1985, something went wrong. It was violence, looting and arson. We were displaced. We were housed temporarily at the Stonebridge Community Hall and then moved to a school in Verulam. After a while, we were allocated homes in Phoenix. We were compensated with Game stores shopping vouchers.”
Naipal said all the published accounts of the riots were written from an outsider’s perspective and the initiative would help put the riots into perspective.
He would also like the day to be observed nationally, like the Sharpeville Massacre was.
“The Inanda riots are forgotten. We suffered the indignity of racial hatred. This is our history and we do not want it swept under the carpet.
“We were driven out of Inanda with only our clothes on our backs. Today, we must find the truth of who or why it was. We must seek reparations.”
He is in the process of setting up an ad hoc committee and hopes to hold a peace and reconciliation prayer in Inanda.
Naipal said once the committee met, they would write to the office of the president with their concerns.
He can be contacted via WhatsApp at 0842450621.
POST”
“The Inanda riots are forgotten. We suffered the indignity of racial hatred. This is our history and we do not want it swept under the carpet.
“We were driven out of Inanda with only our clothes on our backs. Today, we must find the truth of who or why it was. We must seek reparations. ” - Naipal
Warrant Officer CJ Breytenbach was transferred, and he was replaced by Major JH Van Wyk. 198602-07 he was appointed the Station Commander, Mount Edgecombe.
Photograph 17
(Source Servamus undated)
Colour photograph of SA Police, Mount Edgecombe, Lieutenant M Perumal, late (LieutenantColonel standing outside the station, alongside the flag pole, the patrol vehicle in the background and the station behind it. This was presumably taken after 1985 / 1986, as Perumal was promoted to Lieutenant December 1984– [LG])
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Photograph
Lieutenant (Selva) Mogambury Perumal, late (Colonel – [LG]) after his graduation
(Source, His sister Ms Lalitha Munien of Colonel Perumal)
Photograph 19
Major Johannes Hendrik Van Wyk, (Colonel –[LG])
CONSTRUCTION OF SA POICE, PHOENIX
Finally, in the late 1985, construction commenced on the brand-new police station in Phoenix which is one of the largest Indian settlements on the north coast. It is situated on the border of Mount Edgecombe. The construction of new complex has come as a welcome to both Mount Edgecombe and Phoenix As the station strength increased The Station Commander was replaced by Major Van Wyk on 198602-07.
Van Wyk and Singh undertook the oversight of the construction of the proposed new station. Warrant Officer Singh was ultimately appointed to give oversight to the construction of the new station premises where he regularly attended the site meetings and reported same to Headquarters. The Phoenix complex was undoubtedly one of the most prestigious police complexes on the North Coast; it has one of the most modern mortuaries in the Republic, the conference chamber and the most impressive looking single quarters.
(Lieutenant Charles Matthews was transferred to SA Police, Mount Edgecombe during 1986. – ([ND])
20
(Source, Major General Charles Matthews)
Photograph
Major General Charles Matthews
Photograph 21
(Source, Major General Charles Matthews)
SA Police: Candidate Officers Course No 3 / 1986: Benoni
1986-04-24 to1986-07-03
Officer Identified
First row, left to right, 2nd Major AJ Voges (Course Leader), Lieutenant-Colonel (Our Course Leader on the following Candidate Officer’s Course, September 1986 to 1st December 1986 – [LG]); 3rd Colonel JJ Smal, (Brigadier, Commander, was also the Commander on the following Course – [LG]); 4th Udal Singh, late (Captain, Branch Commander SA Police, Wentworth – [LG])
Second row, left to right, 2nd Gregory Rockman (Later pursued his political career – [LG]); 3rd AH Lamoer (was later promoted as a General in the Western Cape Province – [LG]); 4th Charles Matthew, 1st right
RELOCATION TO SA POLICE, PHOENIX
On 1987-10-07 the Mount Edgecombe Station and its staff relocated to SAPS Phoenix.
Major Van Wyk was the Station Commander just prior to the Official Opening on the 1988-06-30. Captain Charles Matthews was his second in command.
Image 01
Media Clipping
“Indian policemen promoted
Transcript
Indian policemen promoted
THE COMMISSIONER of the South African Police, General Hennie de Witt, announced the promotion of 10 senior Indian police officers yesterday.
Major Sharma Maharaj District Commandant at Chatsworth Police district has been promoted to the rank Lieutenant-Colonel.
The station commander of the Phoenix police station, Major Soobramoney Govender, has also been promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel.
Captain Bob Sanker, Port Natal Public Relations Officer, has been promoted to rank of Major - the first Indian to hold such a rank in the public relations division.
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Major Bob Sanker, late (Lieutenant-Colonel – [LG]) (Source, his son Professor Ajesh Maharaj)
Two brothers, who were born on the same day, but two years apart are both branch commanders. (Reggie, Brigadier and Christy, Colonel Marimuthu. – [LG])
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Brigadier Reggie Marimuthu
(Source, Brigadier Reggie Marimuthu)
Other promotions announced were of Major Moonsamy Govender (Manikum Govender, late, Lieutenant-Colonel. – [LG]) of the Guard Unit, Major Rungasamy Munasamy, senior staff officer at Chatsworth, (late, Colonel, Commanding Officer of SA Police, Training College, Chatsworth, Durban; Station Commander SA Police, Phoenix. [LG]) and Major Hans Jissok, branch Commander at Chatsworth, (Major General, Cluster Commander, Durban. – [LG]); Captain George Pillay, staff officer at C.R. Swart and Captain George Govender, branch Commander at Isipingo (Major General, SA Police, Academy, Paarl [Professor] - [LG]). All promotions are backdated to January 1. He was posted to Phoenix Police Station being the First Indian Station Commander. The Phoenix Police Station officially opened by Minister A Rajbansi during 1988 was under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Soobramoney Govender.
Photograph 24
Lieutenant-Colonel Manikum Govender
(Source, family of Lieutenant-Colonel Manikum Govender)
Major General Hans Jissok (Source, [LG])
Major General (Professor) (George) Doraval Govender
(Source, Major General (Professor) (George) Doraval Govender)
Photograph 25
Photograph 26
Photograph 27
Lieutenant-Colonel Soobramoney Govender, former Station Commander, SA Police, Sydenham was appointed the Station Commander of SA Police, Phoenix replacing Major JH Van Wyk
(This photograph was kindly restored by Ms Jennifer Bosch at the request of the daughter of Lieutenant-Colonel S Govender – Ms Kavitha Govender)
Captain Cristy Marimuthu was appointed the Branch Commander of the Detective Branch.
Photograph 28
Captain Cristy Marimuthu, Colonel
(Source, Colonel Cristy Marimuthu)
29
in Command of
Photograph
The second
the Detective Branch was Hirawanlal, late Colonel – [LG])
(Source, family of Colonel Hirawanlal)
Image 02
Media Clipping
Taking on crime at Phoenix
Transcript
“Taking on crime at Phoenix
And Colonel Soobramoney Govender has the style to take it in his stride
COLONEL Soobramoney Govender is a policeman who walks tall with a chest swelling with pride. When the Chatsworth father of five took charge of the newly built Phoenix police station in the giant suburb north of Durban he had prepared himself for a mountainous task ahead.
From all the things I heard about the place I had expected quite a rough time in my new job, said Col Govender.
But that was not to be. Now, just a few weeks short of his first year at the helm, Col Govender says, Phoenix is not bad as it seems.
Col Govender who holds a bachelor’s degree in Police Science, has made it to the top from humble beginnings.
Brought up in Umzinto on the South Coast, Col Govender, 53, left school in Std 6 to pursue many years later the most noble job one can do.
With dogged determination and the will to succeed he overcame the odds and graduated with a degree from the University of South Africa. Though he lists an impressive record of accomplishments since he became station commander at Phoenix, Col Govender says he owes much to his highly motivated staff”.
On his instructions a month ago Phoenix police confiscated and destroyed liquor worth R20 000 in a major swoop on shebeens in the township. Since taking up his position in December last year
Colonel Govender said there were 550 arrests for dagga offences, 65 mandrax related arrests and the closure of 231 shebeens in Phoenix.
The success of such operations, says Col Govender, depends much on the co-operation the police receive from the public. Without their help there can‘t be much success. I have insisted on treating information from the public with the strictest confidence. Such anonymity has ensured that the police get sufficient co-operation from the residents. It has helped us a lot. Also, the feedback we get from the school headmasters, community leaders and local affairs officials is very encouraging, he said.
However, said Col Govender, common crimes are still prevalent. Considering the high rate of unemployment one can expect crimes against property such as housebreaking and thefts. Is he getting job satisfaction? Immensely, said Col Govender. I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.”
Photograph 30
During the official opening of SA Police, Phoenix on 1988-06-30 The guest of honour was, The Honourable, Mr Rajbansi, late, Chairperson, House of Delegates, South African Tricameral Parliament.
From left to right, Lieutenant (Captain – [LG]) Christy Marimuthu, Branch Commander, Detective Branch, Phoenix; Unidentified; The Chaplin; Colonel C Niemand, Brigadier, Deputy District Commandant, Durban North District; The Mayor of Durban; Mr A Rajbansi, seated; LieutenantColonel Soobramoney Govender, Station Commander, Phoenix (Source, Colonel ( Sykes) G Pillay. Information and caption by Major General Charles Matthews)
The Station was Officially Opened by the Honourable Mr A Rajbansi, Chairperson of the House of Delegates, amongst the dignitaries were Colonel C Nieman, deputy District Commandant of Durban North and the Mayor of Durban. A Medal Parade and a Drill Display by Students of the former SA Police, Training College, Wentworth, Durban rendered a scintillating display of drill.
Several members received the South African Police Commemorative 75-year Medal. Several members also received other service awards. The Opening Ceremony was attended by a large gathering from the community, friends, relatives of members and several distinguished guests. The District Commandant awarded the medals to the respective members.
Photograph 31
The District Commandant, Colonel C Nieman, Brigadier flanked by major S Moodley on his right and Lieutenant-Colonel Soobramoney Govender on his right.
Photograph 32
From left to right, Lieutenant-Colonel MP Govender; Colonel Premchand Bharath; Colonel de Lange; Lieutenant-Colonel S Govender and his dear wife, Neela at the Farewell reception of Lieutenant-Colonel S Govender.
Soobramoney Govender retired from active service on 1989-09-30. He was well respected within the SA Police as well as in the community where he assisted many individuals and families. His work ethic and values were an inspiration, and his legacy will always be remembered.
After his official retirement from active service, Lieutenant-Colonel Soobramoney was succeeded by Colonel Rungasamy Munsamy, late (former Commanding Officer of SA Police, Training College, Wentworth and thereafter Chatsworth. – [LG]) as Station Commander.
Photograph 33
Colonel Rungasamy (Dickey) Munsamy, late
(Source, family of Colonel Munsamy)
SA POLICE, TONGAAT
Khan was transferred to SAPS Tongaat on 1992-11-30. Khan worked at Tongaat from 1992-11-30 until 2000-01-14. Tongaat has a very small community and patrol area compared to Phoenix. Khan worked as an exhibit clerk and SAP 6 clerk. The station Commander at the time was Lt Colonel Matthew and later Lt Colonel Colin Govender. Captain Venketas (resigned as Lt Colonel) and Captain Sally Khan now retired General were also stationed at Tongaat. Capt F Cassim now retired Lt Colonel, Mrs Pam Naicker now Lt Colonel and Const Roshni Chunilal now Lt Colonel also worked with Khan at Tongaat. The station is a very old small building, and prefabricated buildings added on.
End of the year function of SA Police, Phoenix members and their families RELOCATION
TO GAUTENG
The family relocated to Gauteng in January 2000.
She was transferred to National Head Office Finance and Admin, Civil Claims Section on 2000-0114.
She worked with Brigadier Sutton and Lt Col Krishni Govender.
Photograph 34
Photograph 35
Lieutenant-Colonel Krishni Govender
(source, Lieutenant-Colonel Krishni Govender)
“I met Rukahia in 2001 when I was promoted to Head Office. She worked with the payment of claims at that stage and prior to my meeting her, I would call her to check on payments or in order to request advice. She was always willing to assist and provide clarity on issues that we experienced. She was hard working and diligent and performed work of a very high standard. She is a go getter, attending various internal courses and studying in order to progress within the SAPS. She attended the Accelerated Basic training course in November 2007 and the Officers Programme Internal Administrative Efficiency in 2008 and also completed BA admin degree with specialization in Public Administration in 2011. Although she was only a few years older than me, she became a mother figure to me. I lost my mum a few months after moving to Pretoria. Rukahia afforded me overwhelming love and support even bringing lunch to the office for me. Over the years she has become a very close family friend. She holds a very special place in my heart, as well as my family member’s hearts. Rukahia exudes inner beauty, humility and grace. She is a classy lady who brings out the best in those who are fortunate to meet her. She has served well in the Department and continues to serve the community. Shine on”
CRIME INTELLIGENCE
Thereafter she was subsequently promoted to The National Head Office, Crime Intelligence Division Secret Service account as Chief Admin Clerk on 2001-11-01. Lt Colonel Judy Britz was her Commander. She was responsible for the administration of all logistical losses reported.
On 2005-08-01 she was promoted to the rank of Captain, in accordance with The Police Act and posted to The National Head Office, PSS. (Maupa Naga Building Sunnyside Pretoria) Her Commander was Brigadier Petersen. She was responsible for the administration of all logistical losses for the Division Protection and Security Services. She also provided training to members at the various Provinces regarding administration of losses.
Deed of Commission
By the President
To RUKAHIA BIBI KHAN
Greetings
By virtue of Section 33 (1) of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No 68 of 1995), and the special trust and confidence placed in you and your loyalty to the Republic of South Africa and to the Constitution, I hereby appoint you as a commissioned officer in the South African Police Service as from 1st day of August 2005
As commissioned officer in the South African Police Service, I command you to…
• uphold the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
• conscientiously and diligently discharge your duties in accordance with the law and in a manner worthy of the trust placed in you;
• continuously strive towards excellence in the performance of the functions of the Service and for the purpose to utilize all resources placed at your disposal in a responsible, effective and efficient manner;
• lead by example all officers, members and other employees of the Service under your command in the performance of the functions of the Service as set out in the Constitution and the law, and
• execute all lawful orders and instructions given to you by me or your superiors.
I command that those placed under your command obey you as their superior officer in accordance with the law.
Given under my Hand and the Seal of the Republic of South Africa at Pretoria on 6th day of July 2006.
Thabo Mbeki PRESIDENT
By Order of the President-in-Cabinet Minister of the Cabinet”
INSERT LIEUTENANT- COLONEL JUDITH BRITZ
Photograph 36
Lieutenant-Colonel Judith Britz
(Source, Lieutenant-Colonel Judith Britz)
Rukahia Khan worked under my command at National Head Division Crime Intelligence
Service Account as Chief Admin Clerk from 2001 until 2004. She worked again with me at National Head Office Division Supply Chain Management as a Captain from 2012-03-01 until 2015-09-01 and as a Lt Colonel from 2015-09-01 until her retirement. I always enjoyed working with her because of her good character. She is a type of person who you can trust. She treated everyone with respect and love. She was dedicated to her work and always willing to assist other colleagues. I know her for 23 years and never experienced any negative feelings from her towards any person nor any person towards her. She will protect the people who act in good faith. She always does her best and always gave positive inputs at her workplace, she is the type of person who I want in my life until the end. I never experienced another person like her. She is a peacemaker. I love her.
On 2007-11-28 a Certificate of Award, South African Police Service Accelerated Basic Training Learning Programme Certificate for the period 2007-09-10 to 2007-11-28 held at SA Police Service, Training College, Bishop Lavis was handed to Khan, for having successfully completing the course and passed the following subjects / modules;
Learning Area 1: Orientation to SAPS
Learning Area 2: Law
Learning Area 3: Community Service Centre
Learning Area 4: Crime Investigation
Learning Area 5: Crime Prevention
Learning Area 6: Street Survival
Member Identified
Photograph 37
Group photograph taken at SA Police, Training College, Bishop Lavis, Cape Town
Third row standing, from left to right, 5th seated, RB Khan
On 2008-02-15 she underwent the Officers Programme at SAPS Academy Paarl.
Photograph 38
South African Police Service
Training Institution Paarl
Officer’s Programme Internal Administrative Efficiency (IAE) Class 31/2007 92008-01-13 to 2008-02-15)
HEAD OFFICE
Member Identified:-
Middle row, left to right, 13th from left, RB Khan, 1st from right
Certificate 03
Certificate of Award
South African Police Service, certificate was awarded to Captain RB KHAN for having successfully completed Officers Programme Internal Administrative Efficiency Nr 31/2007
2008-01-13 to 2008-02-15
Module A: Communication
Module B: Management of Human Resources
Module C: Functional Management
Module D: Supply Chain Management
Module E: Financial Management
Dated 2008 02-15 signed by Senior Superintendent J Miller
Modules Undertaken
Transcript
MODULE A: COMMUNICATION
Public speaking
Written communication
Meeting Procedures
Dealing with the Media
Interviewing
Diaries
MODULE B: MANAGEMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Organised Labour
Grievance Procedures
Discipline
SHE Management
Inspection of Registers pertaining to absenteeism
Medical Boards
MODULE C: FUNCTIONAL MANAGEMENT
Duties of the Duty Officer
Management of Dockets
Inspection of CSC Registers
MODULE D: SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
Procurement
Inspection of Internal Requisition (PAS@)
Donations
Forfeited Property
Receiving of State Property
Accounting
Inspection of SAPS 24 register
Inspection of SAPS 186(a) register
State Property Management
Inventory Management
Disposals
Fleet Management
Inspection of Vehicle Register (SAPS 132(b)
MODULE E: FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
PFMA
Financial inspection of income of a Non-Depositing Station
Management of Private telephone calls
Inspection of Overtime Remuneration
Resource Management
Service Delivery and Community Trust
Strategic Thinking and Planning
An understanding of Economic Relations of the Organisation
Importance of Financial Management System to Ensure
Accurate Information for Decision-making
Cost effective Decision-making
Control of Assets
Enhancing Internal Control
Understanding of Financial Terminology and Implications thereof
Change the Attitude of the Staff Towards the Organisation
2010: SOCCER WORLD CUP
Archbishop
Photograph 39
Emeritus Desmond Tutu and Khan at the World Cup hosted at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa, during 2010
Photograph 40
Graca Machel, (2nd from left) the former First Lady of South Africa with Khan (3rd from left) at the World Cup hosted at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa, during 2010 with other police members on duty
Photograph 41
Christian Karembeu a French World Cup Football Official with Kahn at the World Cup hosted at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa, during 2010
Photograph 42
Khan at the World Cup hosted at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa, during 2010 with an unidentified official
Photograph 43
An unidentified police member with Khan at the World Cup hosted at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa, during 2010.
Certificate 04
Certificate of Award
A Bachelor of Administration with Specialisation in Public Management with all the associated rights and privileges was conferred on
University of Pretoria
On 2011-04-11
graduated with Bachelor of Administration with Specialisation in Public Management at the University of Pretoria
Rukahia Bibi Khan by
Photograph 44
Khan
2015-09-01 she was promoted to Lt Colonel at National Head Office Division SCM. On 2021-10-31
Lt Col Khan retired from the service
Photograph 45
Service medals awarded to her
From left to right, South African Police Service Medal commemorating 100 years of Policing 1913 to 2013; South African Police Ten Year commemorating 10 years of Amalgamation from 1995-2005; South African Police Service Medal commemorating the hosting of the Soccer World Cup Support 2010.
The couple have 3 children, Mohammed Wazir Khan. Lieutenant-Colonel in SA Police Services, Zakir Khan, attorney and daughter Haseena a compliance specialist.
Photograph 46
Khan is with Essa Lethabo Mokgele taken during July 2020
Essa and his mum are valuable members of the and reside with the Khan family since 2000. This picture was taken when Essa was in grade 1. He is now 10 years old and will turn 11 on the 30th of November 2024. He attends Springvale Primary school and thereafter Madressa in the afternoon.
Photograph 47
Lieutenant-Colonel Mohammed Wazir Khan, he is stationed at SA Police, Stanger
South African Police Service
Certificate of Service
1981-01-20 -2021-10-31
Signed by Lieutenant General J Riet dated 2021-10-31
Certificate 06
Certificate of Award
South African Police Service
Certificate in Appreciation
Signed by Lieutenant General J Riet dated 2021-10-31
It gives me great pride and honour to write this afterword on my mum. My mum was born in 1961, at a time when completing matric and starting work immediately was the norm. My mum was 19
Photograph 48
Zakir Khan
years old when she started working in the SA Police force. It was not difficult for her to strike a balance between work, family commitments and religious obligations. In fulfilling these obligations, she demonstrated extraordinary strength and resilience. She possesses the unique ability to organize and prioritize both her personal and professional life. She focused on her career and went on to study, obtaining her Bachelor of Administration degree with specialization in Public Administration from the University of Pretoria. My mum served in the SAPS from 1981-01-20 until 2021-10-31 a total of 40 years. She served 19 years in KwaZulu Natal. In 2000 we moved to Pretoria. My mum served 21 years in Pretoria, Gauteng. Moving to Gauteng was the best decision for the entire family. My mum retired on 2021-10-31 as a Lieutenant Colonel in the SAPS.
B Com Law
Bachelor or Law and a Master’s degree in International Tax
Zakir Khan
Photograph 49
Editor in Chief of Nongqai, Brigadier Hennie B Heymans, [HBH]
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I should like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to the following: -
• The Editor, Nongqai, [HBH] for agreeing to publish a Special Edition of Nongqai to acknowledge, celebrate and honour the life and police careerof Lieutenant-Colonel RB Khan. The invaluable contributions by [HBH] in researching, recording and documenting the efforts of South African Police, Security and Military personnel, of ALL groups; particularly that of South African Police, Indian members;
• Lieutenant-Colonel RB Khan for all the information and photographs provided, unless otherwise indicated;
• Ms Haseena Khan for the Foreword;
• Mr Zakir Khan for the Afterword;
• Major General (Professor) [George] [DG] for his keen interest, advice, inspiration and professional assistance always;
• Advocate Karen Pillay, daughter of Colonel Rungasamy (Dickey) Munsamy for her keen interest, advice, inspiration and professional assistance always;
• Lieutenant-Colonels Krishni Govender and Judith Britz Captain Prithveraj (Noddy) Deoraj [ND] Warrant Officer (Apostle) Vinod for their respective inserts;
• Last but by no means the least, my dear family for their inspiration, encouragement and patience.
“Agnoscere et honorare servientibus” –“To acknowledge and honour those who served”
“Soli Deo Gloria” - “To God Alone Glory”
“The Nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten” – Calvin Coolidge
