Constable Umdisa – The Human Bloodhound – In recent times, the media has confronted us with commissions of inquiry, police corruption, and police incompetence. Yet, against this bleak backdrop, one remarkable and unique case stands out: that of Constable Umdisa of the Pretoria Police, who more than a century ago investigated an extraordinary murder case — with outstanding results.
The message conveyed by his conduct was clear and powerful: We protect and we serve. According to available evidence, Constable Umdisa was a son of KwaZulu, a man with limited formal schooling, yet a policeman and detective to the core.
One cannot help but feel respect for his purposeful action and the successful conclusion of the case entrusted to him.