Picture: Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit member, Sergeant Brisela Jacobs/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
22 July 2026 – The police in Namakwa continue to recognise and celebrate the dedication, resilience and invaluable contribution of women in policing. Sergeant Brisela Jacobs of the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit shared her inspiring journey within the SAPS, reflecting on her beginnings as a Reservist in 2006, before officially joining the Service as a student in 2013.
Jacobs’ commitment to serving and protecting communities has seen her progress to the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit, where she currently serves as an Advanced Driver. Her responsibilities include conducting highway patrols, performing vehicle checks and contributing to road safety and crime prevention initiatives along the N7 and N14 routes within the Namakwa District.
“I am passionate about my role and the aspects of highway policing inspires me the most. This gives me an opportunity to serve communities with skill, precision, professionalism and commitment, while contributing to safer roads and ensuring the safety and security of road users across the district.
“As a woman in uniform, I would also like to use the platform to deliver a powerful message to women by encouraging them to recognise their worth and to speak out against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF),” she said.
Jacobs further said women are valuable, precious and they should know that storms do not come to break, but to build them. She added that they should break away from domestic violence, GBVF and break the silence.
“So, I would like to encourage women in the SAPS to conduct themselves responsibly on social media platforms and to remain mindful of the principles and professional standards prescribed by SAPS directives, which provides guidance on professional conduct and communication within the SAPS.
“One of the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit’s successes involves the tracing of a stolen vehicle through the use of an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) scanner. The incident demonstrated the value of technology in supporting intelligence-driven policing and enhancing the ability of police officials to detect and respond to criminal activity,” said Jacobs.
She applauded her colleagues in the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit for their continued teamwork, dedication and commitment to policing. Jacobs also acknowledged the leadership and guidance of the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, whose support continues to contribute towards strengthening effective policing and service delivery throughout the district.
Meanwhile, Andrews said: “The SAPS in Namakwa remains committed to recognising the contribution of women in policing and empowering its members to serve communities with integrity, professionalism and dedication.”
The Guardian 