Limpopo police's drone pilot, Sgt Morekwana Monyela, never wanted to be a police officer, but his passion for giving back to the community pushed him to join the force.
The 38-year-old father of two started his journey with the SAPS in 2008. “However, when I got the opportunity, I learnt and realised that there are different career paths with the SAPS.
“Being in the SAPS has allowed me to serve not only my community but the country at large,” he said.
Monyela has been working with helicopters as an airborne law enforcement officer (Aleo) since 2014. His career as a drone pilot started in 2023 when the SAPS Air Wing introduced drones. “That's when they took us for a drone course to acquire drone pilot licences,” he said.
Monyela said when the opportunity to be a drone pilot presented itself, he fulfilled his dream to serve his country and doesn't regret it.
He serves as an Aleo and a drone pilot in the high-stakes Vala Umgodi operation, where his skills are essential in combating crime, gathering intelligence and ensuring public safety.
He conducts crime prevention flights and assists other police officials acting on information of criminal activities.
His expertise in piloting drones enables effective monitoring of criminal activities while significantly reducing the risks to officers on the ground. His ability to capture critical footage ensures swift action, often preventing criminals from fleeing or concealing evidence.
He said his career was all about patience and attention to detail. These are critical skills as he constantly monitors the drone screen to spot activities that he is observing.
“I sharpened my skills by flying often, I engage with other drone pilots if I have any challenges or share experiences and I always refresh by going back to the manuals.
“In my line of work, it's not consistent. Sometimes, it's very hectic as I am serving the whole province by giving air support to all SAPS units with different tasks,” he said.
He said though it is often busy, during rainy seasons it gets hectic as they assist Search and Rescue searching for people swept away by floods.
This assistance proved vital during the recent heavy rains when Limpopo experienced several drownings. Victims were successfully located and retrieved in the most challenging conditions.
He added they also assist accident response units with aerial photos of the scene.
A hands-on father who is always there for his children, Monyela said he has enjoyed support from his family.
“They always encouraged me to respect my job, serve with passion and always do my best when at work. My mother and my partner have always encouraged me and are continuing to support and encourage me,” he said.
His commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth reflects his drive to constantly improve and make a greater impact in both his professional and personal life. “Personally, I am a reserved person who likes his own space, and I like studying. I recently completed my LLB degree with Unisa,” he said.
Monyela hits the gym every day at 5am before he goes to work. He said this is a ritual to keep his body and mind fit for work, and he also does it to wind down when he is off duty.
He also goes to church for spiritual guidance.
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