Oprah's SA detective honoured
2008-02-17 22:38
Amanda Roestoff
Johannesburg - The police officer who investigated the child-molesting case at Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls has been honoured at a police awards ceremony.
Constable Simon Mareletse, 26, of Vereeniging's family violence, child protection and sexual offences unit was named overall winner of the annual Matla A Bana (A voice against child abuse) prestige awards for Gauteng police.
"I feel now as if I am able to take on anything that comes my way, and look at it four-square," said Mareleste, who has been at the unit for six years, and working as a detective for the past three.
The detective was so overwhelmed when he was given the high-profile investigation, that he felt unworthy of the task.
"There were so many detectives with more experience, but I pulled through with the help of my commanding officer and colleagues. This award also belongs to them."
The matron from the academy is facing 13 charges of indecent assault, assault and crimen injuria, after various incidents in which pupils from the exclusive Henley-on-Klip school were assaulted and/or fondled.
She was released earlier on R3 000 bail.
Wants to make a difference
Inspector Peet du Toit, 32, of Krugersdorp family and child unit also was singled out for his exceptional ability.
Du Toit has been working for the police for 16 years and has been specialising in sexual-abuse cases for the past seven.
Du Toit said: "I don't just want to make a difference in someone's life, I also want to make a difference in the victim's future."
Commissioner Perumal Naidoo encouraged detectives to "spread their wings" and share their knowledge with their colleagues and the community.
- Beeld