5 articles match your filters
The Madlanga Commission has revealed a depth of systemic corruption and criminal infiltration that suggests South Africa may need a permanent constitutional body to confront these threats.
Under Fire in South Africa presents the extraordinary life and frontline experiences of Colonel Schalk Visagie, a South African Police officer who served at the heart of some of the country’s most turbulent and violent chapters. From the Border War in South West Africa/Angola, to presidential protection duties for P.W. Botha, to high‑stakes investigations within the Security Branch, Visagie’s career placed him at the centre of events that shaped national history. He confronted the aftermath of the St. James Church Massacre, the Planet Hollywood bombing, and the deadly campaigns of PAGAD and QIBLA, leading specialised units against organised violence, hit squads, and terror networks. His survival of the Black River Parkway ambush in February 1999—described by medical and ballistics experts as humanly impossible—stands as a profound testimony to providence and the power of prayer. Written with the precision of a seasoned detective and the humility of a man who has endured the unimaginable, Under Fire in South Africa is a gripping, deeply human narrative of courage, faith, trauma, and resilience. It is a story of national significance and cinematic potential, offering vital insight and inspiration for readers living in uncertain and troubled times.
Helena M. Jacobs recounts a distinguished career in the South African Police Service marked by dedication, resilience, and unwavering integrity. Beginning her service in 1990 as a clerk in Ogies, she went on to support several specialised units, including SANAB, Serious Violent Crime, Legal Services, and Organised Crime. Her journey reflects both professional challenges and profound personal loss, notably the tragic passing of her daughter in 1999, during which her SAPS colleagues offered exceptional compassion and support. Jacobs played a vital administrative role in complex investigations, high pressure environments, and sensitive case preparations, earning recognition as Gauteng’s second best Support Employee of the Year in 2014. Her career stands as a testament to the indispensable contribution of administrative personnel within policing, and she retires with a legacy of loyalty, discipline, and meaningful service to her country.
Cristina Swart’s career in the South African Police Service reflects a pioneering spirit, professional excellence, and unwavering commitment to justice. As the first Portuguese policewoman in the SAP, she progressed from police college in 1989 to specialised operational work in the Security Branch and later the Endangered Species Protection Unit (ESPU). Serving as Section Commander of the Fauna Team, she conducted high risk undercover operations, buy bust interventions, and investigations into ivory, rhino horn, abalone, and radioactive material syndicates. Her work brought her into international conservation circles, including engagements with the Discovery Channel and Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. After transferring to East London in 1998, she became second in command of the Undercover Unit and later acted as commander before the unit’s closure. She subsequently joined Crime Intelligence, overseeing handlers, informers, and Secret Services Accounts. Swart resigned in 2014 with the rank of Captain, leaving behind a distinguished legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to combating organised crime and protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.
Cristina Swart’s career in the South African Police Service reflects a pioneering spirit, professional excellence, and unwavering commitment to justice. As the first Portuguese policewoman in the SAP, she progressed from police college in 1989 to specialised operational work in the Security Branch and later the Endangered Species Protection Unit (ESPU). Serving as Section Commander of the Fauna Team, she conducted high‑risk undercover operations, buy‑bust interventions, and investigations into ivory, rhino horn, abalone, and radioactive‑material syndicates. Her work brought her into international conservation circles, including engagements with the Discovery Channel and Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. After transferring to East London in 1998, she became second‑in‑command of the Undercover Unit and later acted as commander before the unit’s closure. She subsequently joined Crime Intelligence, overseeing handlers, informers, and Secret Services Accounts. Swart resigned in 2014 with the rank of Captain, leaving behind a distinguished legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to combating organised crime and protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.
