Mossel Bay leads the way with training of first responders

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MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Thirteen women and 31 men earlier today, 10 June tasted the pride and sense of accomplishment having been trained as a first responder group that will assist the South African Police in crowd management.

From 30 May, the South African Police Service trained the recruits in the basics of crowd management. Only two members of the original intake did not complete the course.

Captains George Gildenhuys and Arno Stramroodt, respectively from SAPS human resource development in George and Paarl along with a group of seasoned trainers, presented this tough and physical course.

PHOTO GALLERY: Squad of first responders receive specialised training

Gildenhuys said that this pilot group, is the first of its kind in the Western Cape.

“You will have the authority to deal with the residents of Mossel Bay. Do it with respect, be fair but strict, act like leaders and set the example. Always remember, when dealing with our residents, you act on behalf of the municipal council of Mossel Bay, therefore, act responsibly,” executive mayor, Alderman Dirk Kotzé told the trainees.

Alderman Dirk Kotze with squad leader, Thembi August.

He explained that the concept of training a first responder unit to assist SAPS in crowd management was developed in 2021.

He expressed his pride and gratitude towards the SAPS Cluster for their swift action in this collaborative effort with the municipality.

Superintendent Antoinette Snyders, assistant chief of municipal traffic services, who will take over the following two months of the group’s training from Monday, 13 June expressed her sheer pride at the group’s accomplishment.Capt George Gildenhuys, Alderman Dirk Kotze, Councillor Leon van Dyk, Capt Arno Stamroodt with top trainees Gershwin Rhode and Aseza Mncele.

“I told you that this may be the most difficult weeks of your lives, but when you are done, you will have a sense of pride and accomplishment that you have not experienced before.”

Captain Arno Stramroodt, the training facilitator explained that the programme focused on three aspects – discipline, respect and teamwork.

Chantal Petersen, one of the trainees said it was “two weeks of hell, but a once in a lifetime experience”.
Sonwabo Dineso, who also spoke about his experience mentioned that he learnt that discipline is the cornerstone of success. “

‘’I learnt that discipline is the cornerstone of success. Without it, nothing meaningful can be achieved.”Congratulatory handshake from the mayor, Alderman Dirk Kotz