Thohoyandou came to a standstill when the men in blue took to the streets in a grand march. This was during the National Police Day of the SAPS that was held at the Thohoyandou Town Hall during the weekend.

According to a directive from national office, police officers and members of the community and family members had to gather to commemorate those who had passed away during the cause of duty and those who had died of other causes.

The Thohoyandou cluster area, under the leadership of Dir Justice Tshiisaphungo, held a mammoth celebration at the Thohyandou Town Hall on Sunday. The proceedings were preceded by a splendid police parade which was a marvel to watch as police went about their paces through the streets of Thohoyandou.

Speaking to the guests and members of the police, the station commissioner for theThohoyandou police, Dir Justice Tshisaphungo, said it was the selfless sacrifices by members of the police to provide safety to all who live in South Africa that made them remember the day. "The SAPS continues to applaud those members who give dignity to the blue uniform and a special honour to the bravery of members whose commitment was met with loss of life," he said.

Tshisaphungo said he was happy that the national commissioner and his management had extended this year´s celebrations to include all employees within the SAPS as well as their family members, so as for them to sit around the table. He said it afforded members the opportunity to share the best practice of the year and evaluate the previous year´s operations, including the rewarding of the long-serving, dedicated members within the SAPS environment. Tshisaphungo urged members to ensure that service was being delivered to the community in order to meet the obligations and responsibilities to them in terms of the Constitution.

He urged members to tackle their work with renewed vigour in order that public safety be maintained. He commended family members and friends of dedicated SAPS members who supported each other during the festive season. "I do not have special words to thank you, but know that your support is highly appreciated and commendable. Your efforts are making Thohoyandou and its cluster areas a better and safer area for all," he said. He commended the police for a job well done during the festive season."I am proud to announce here today that, through your selfless efforts, we managed to bring crime levels down to 37% within the CBDs as compared to previous years. Your efforts will never be in vain; keep it up," he said. He conluded by promising to help those who had lost loved ones.

The highlight of the occassion was when long-serving and dedicated members were rewarded with medals and certificates. A moment of silence was observed to remember those members who had lost their lives in the line of duty.