995 articles
The Battle of Blood River established a foundational moment in South Africa’s security consciousness. Nearly two centuries later, the 2026 arson attack at the heritage site reminds us that cultural landmarks remain vulnerable and require vigilant protection.
The article commemorates the historical role of camels in the South African Police. Since 1914, camels were used for patrol duties in the arid regions of the Northern Cape and the Kalahari, and at one point 417 camels served the Police. It describes the unveiling of a commemorative bronze statue in Upington on 25 April 1988 by Minister Adriaan Vlok, honouring both the animals and their riders, who served in harsh desert conditions. The article closes with a reflection that suffering teaches wisdom and faith. The event formed part of the SAP’s 75th anniversary celebrations and highlighted the historical significance of camel patrols in remote regions. The article concludes with a contemplative remark on the lessons of hardship, wisdom, and faith.
Beriggewers en Informante. Nongqai Vol. 17 Nr. 8.
This article recounts the operations of the Bedford District Mounted Troops (DMT) in the Cape Colony during the Anglo-Boer War. Composed mainly of local farmers, these units supported British forces by observing Boer movements rather than engaging directly, fearing reprisals against their farms. The narrative follows General Pieter Kritzinger’s 1901 incursion through the Cape Midlands, detailing skirmishes near Buffelskloof and Cameron’s Glen, the deaths of Captain John Rennie and Trooper W.D. Ross, and the subsequent pursuit by Gorringe’s Flying Column. The account captures the tension between loyalty, survival, and local heritage in a turbulent frontier.
A Detective Sergeant's personal view of Nationalist Party Ministers & VIP's during the 1960's.
https://www.nongqai.org/wolfgang-witschas-die-geskiedenis-van-krygkunde-in-suider-afrika-vol-17-nr-8/
The Battle of Vaal Krantz marked General Redvers Buller’s third failed attempt to break through Boer positions along the Tugela River and relieve Ladysmith. Confined terrain, heavy Boer resistance under Ben Viljoen, and the inability to deploy British artillery effectively forced Buller to abandon the operation after three days of fighting.
The article looks at the history and contribution of Indian police officers in South Africa. It describes how many officers served with courage despite racial barriers and difficult conditions. It highlights important police officers and families who built a strong legacy of public service. The article also discusses corruption and the loss of trust in parts of the police service. It ends by calling for integrity, justice and a return to the true spirit of policing.
Colonel Johannes “Tollie” Vreugdenburg is one of the very few South African Police detectives to have earned the Silver Cross for Bravery twice, a distinction reserved for exceptional courage under extreme danger. His career reflects a lifetime of service marked by professionalism, integrity, and unwavering dedication to national security.
The article commemorates the tenth anniversary of the South African Railway Police Special Task Force, highlighting its formation, operational achievements, and enduring contribution to national security. It reflects on the unit’s disciplined professionalism and its strategic role in protecting vital transport infrastructure.
South Africa inherited distinct military and political traditions that were never fully synthesised into a coherent post-1994 strategic culture. Rebuilding effective military strategy and doctrine therefore requires neither restoration nor rejection, but a deliberate synthesis of professional, technological and operational strengths with the legitimate lessons of the liberation experience.
