Cristina – Nongqai Vol 17 No 6

“My name is Cristina Swart (De Carvalho)”

Ida Steyn

ABSTRACT (English)

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.

KEYWORDS

Cristina Swart,

South African Police Service (SAPS),

South African Police (SAP),

Endangered Species Protection Unit (ESPU),

Undercover operations,

Crime Intelligence,

Wildlife crime investigations,

Ivory and rhino horn trafficking,

Abalone syndicates,

Security Branch,

Women in policing,

Organised crime,

Conservation law enforcement,

MY NAME IS CRISTINA SWART (DE CARVALHO)

I was the first Portuguese police woman in the SAP.

In 1989, I was a student at Pretoria West Police College (2nd semester).

In December 1989, I was recruited to the Security Branch.

In 1993 to 1998 I was stationed at the Endangered Species Protection Unit. I joined as Sergeant and left as a Captain.

I was the Section Commander of Fauna team.

My daily function was performing buy-bust with criminals selling ivory and rhino horn, investigate individual as well as syndicates related endangered species crimes and testifying in court.

I also assisted with Abalone syndicates and Radio Active materials.

I was invited to the launch of the Discovery Chanel Series that was televised in the USA and Europe and spent 1week in New York.

I was privilege to meet Prince Bernard of Netherlands who was the custodian of the ESPU Trust.

I met my husband at the ESPU where he worked at the Anti-poaching unit. These were my best years in SAP.

In May 1998 I moved to East Londen, and I joined the Undercover Unit as Second in Command.

Riaan and I got married 1 May 1999. I then became the acting Commander, but the Unit was closed due to political reasons. Our unit then joined East London Crime Intelligence.

My duties include overseeing a group of handlers/informers/Secret Services Account and performing general managerial duties.

In 2014 I resigned from the SAPS as a Captain.”

CONCLUSION:

Cristina Swart’s journey in the SAPS is a testimony of courage, dedication and excellence.

Her commitment to justice, leadership in protecting endangered species, and tireless fight against organized crime reflect the true spirit of a Lady in Blue.

We thank her for her loyal service, sacrifice, and invaluable contribution to the SAPS.

Some careers end, but a legacy of service never fades.

***May the future bring you happiness, good health and many blessings***