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Sergeant Morekwana Monyela is described as a dedicated and accomplished member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who has built a career marked by passion, determination, and an unwavering commitment to serving his community.
He is presently deployed at the SAPS Limpopo Airwing, and serves as ‘airborne’ law enforcement officer and a drone pilot in the “high-stakes” Vala Umgodi operation.
SAPS spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, said his skills are essential in combating crime, gathering intelligence, and ensuring public safety.
Sergeant Monyela’s joined the SAPS in 2008 when he completed basic training at the Tshwane Police Academy.
“His early years as a uniformed officer exposed him to the realities of Visible Policing and Support Services, providing him with invaluable experience in the field.
“However, driven by a deep desire to make a lasting impact, Sergeant Morekwana Monyela sought out one of SAPS’ most challenging and rewarding environments, the airwing.
Ledwaba said after Monyela completed his specialised training, he quickly proved himself to be a fearless and skilled professional, ready to tackle any challenge in the sky.
“As a drone pilot, Sergeant Monyela plays a pivotal role in operations such as Vala Umgodi, a tactical initiative designed to dismantle criminal activities, especially illicit mining.
“The use of drones has revolutionised policing by providing real-time aerial surveillance, gathering intelligence, and offering the ability to monitor vast areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
The use of drones in crime-fighting operations also reduces the risks to officers on the ground.
Ledwaba said the SAPS Limpopo drone team also assists in search and rescue operations and in locating missing people.
