Captain Mornay Viljoen has left the South African Police Services to join Agri Eastern Cape.
Affectionately known by his family as the “hero who protects the rhinos”, and by his colleagues as a dedicated and loyal leader, Captain Mornay Viljoen has served the South African Police Services for 36 years, with the last 20 as the Commanding Officer of the Jeffreys Bay Stock Theft Unit.
Now, after more than three decades in the SAPS, he bids farewell to his beloved colleagues as he joins Agri Eastern Cape as the Operations Manager in Gqeberha.
Viljoen embarked on his career with the SAPS in 1988, completing his training at the prestigious SAPS Training Facility in Pretoria in 1989.
His initial posting was to the Riot Control Unit in Oudtshoorn, where he swiftly rose through the ranks, achieving promotions to Lance Sergeant in 1990 and Sergeant later that year.
Viljoen served with distinction in this unit until 1991, before being transferred to SAPS Joubertina, where he spent six years within the Visible Policing Unit.
During this tenure, he continued to demonstrate his leadership potential, earning promotions to Warrant Officer in 1992, Lieutenant in 1994, and Captain in 1995.
In 1997 Viljoen transitioned to the Joubertina Detective Branch, marking the beginning of a highly successful career as a detective.
His exceptional skills and dedication led to numerous accomplishments, solidifying his reputation as a seasoned investigator.
In 2004 he was appointed Commanding Officer of the Jeffreys Bay Stock Theft Unit, a position he held until his recent resignation.
To further add to his numerous achievements, Viljoen’s excellent investigative skills and valuable contribution to protecting endangered species led to him being appointed as the SAPS Provincial Wildlife Co-ordinator in 2016.
Throughout his tenure, he accumulated invaluable experience and expertise, complemented by extensive training and coursework.
Viljoen devoted considerable time and energy to combating rhino poaching, playing a pivotal role in prevention, detection, apprehension, and conviction efforts, nationwide.
Known by his wife Rina, and sons, Regard and Johan, as the “hero who protects the rhinos”, his time within the Stock Theft Unit has paved the way for his new venture as Operations Manager at Agri Eastern Cape, where he will work closely with the farming community to improve the safety of both rural farmers and private farm owners.
Thinking back on when he first joined the SAPS 36 years ago, Viljoen said he would have never thought it would have led to him one day joining Agri Eastern Cape.
He further revealed that he had never considered leaving the SAPS, but when an unexpected job offer came his way, he felt compelled to seize the opportunity.
“This new opportunity is a gift from the Lord. He has always provided me with good job opportunities,” said Viljoen.
Despite looking forward to his new venture at Agri Eastern Cape, he said he is heartbroken to leave the SAPS.
“My blood will always be blue, and I will always be a policeman at heart,” said Viljoen.
“I made many good memories within the SAPS, my colleagues, friends, and the community which I served to the best of my ability.”
Throughout his tenure as Commanding Officer of the Jeffreys Bay Stock Theft Unit, Viljoen has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to conservation and anti-poaching efforts. Notable recognitions include:
- A Certificate of Appreciation from the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism of the Eastern Cape in 2017, for his tireless efforts in combating rhino poaching in the province.
- A Certificate of Achievement and MEC Special Award from the MEC for the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) and the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency in 2018 for his exemplary work, bravery, and outstanding contribution to conservation.
- A Certificate of Recognition in 2019 for his instrumental role in the arrest and prosecution of the notorious Ndlovu syndicate involved in rhino poaching.
- A Certificate of Commendation for exceptional performance as a Stock Theft Unit and Endangered Species Crime Investigator in 2019, acknowledging his success in tracing and arresting high-profile suspects, resulting in over 500 years of cumulative imprisonment.
Razaan Plaatjies
www.news24.com
