Newcastle POP Unit’s Red Mambas head to SWAT Challenge

The South African Police Service’s Public Order Police (POP) Unit stands at the forefront during public protests, major events, and gatherings that can often become volatile. These dedicated officers play a critical role in maintaining order and safety, especially in tense situations where public safety is at risk. However, their responsibilities extend beyond just managing crowds—they put their lives at risk every day as they carry out a variety of duties to ensure law and order are upheld in challenging circumstances.

It is important to note that when dispersing crowds, members of the POP Unit may use rubber bullets, stun grenades, and tear gas to manage situations.

They are also tasked with removing obstacles that protestors may use to barricade roads. Their role is of such a nature, when POP members arrive at a scene of unrest, they immediately take full control of the situation, ensuring that it is safely handled. The nature of their job demands quick thinking, a calm presence under pressure, and the ability to maintain public safety at all costs.

As part of their ongoing dedication to law enforcement, the Newcastle POP Unit, affectionately known as the “Red Mambas,” is gearing up to compete in the highly anticipated SWAT Challenge. This event will take place at the Special Forces School in Pretoria from 25 November 2024 to 29 November 2024.

According to the SAPS, the Red Mambas are preparing for their first-ever participation in this competition, and they are determined to represent their unit and Newcastle with pride.

Sergeant Philisile Zikalala, the senior female trainer for the Newcastle POP Unit, shared the team’s excitement about the opportunity to compete. She explained that this is the first time the local POP Unit will be part of the SWAT Challenge, and they are eager to make their mark. “We enjoy the interactions and the cohesiveness among the team members taking part in the competition, so I feel that we will make it at least to the top as the first timers,” Sergeant Zikalala said.

Despite this enthusiasm, she made it clear that the competition will not be easy. She stressed that the team has been training extensively for several months to ensure they are fully prepared. “There’s so much training and preparation needed for this challenge, which focuses on both physical and mental endurance, strength building, and the development of a positive attitude,” she explained, adding that one’s mindset and consistency was key.

A total of 12 members from the Newcastle POP Unit will take part in the SWAT Challenge, with four additional members standing by as reserves. Sergeant Zikalala explained that these officers will face a series of physically and mentally demanding challenges. These include the Tactical Event, Assault Event, Officer Rescue, the Tower Event, and an Obstacle Course. Each event is designed to push their abilities to the limit, testing their tactical skills, teamwork, and resilience.

Sergeant Zikalala emphasised that if the Newcastle POP Unit were to secure a victory at the SWAT Challenge, it would be a monumental achievement for the team.

“This victory would highlight the dedication, skill, and teamwork that our unit embodies daily. For our team, it would be a strong affirmation of our hard work and training efforts, showing that we’re ready to handle the toughest challenges.,” said Sergeant Zikalala.

Moreover, she pointed out that for Newcastle, this win would shine a spotlight on the Newcastle’s SAPS’s commitment to excellence in public safety, showing the community that they’re protected by a team capable of standing out on a national level.

“It’s more than just a win; it’s a symbol of our city’s strength, unity, and resilience,” emphasised Sergent Zikalala, who also added that the primary function of the POP Unit is crowd management.

While the primary function of the POP Unit is crowd management, Sergeant Zikalala also highlighted that the unit is specially trained for other critical operations, such as tackling gangsterism. “We will continue ensuring that Newcastle citizens are safe as per our constitutional mandate,” she stated, reaffirming their commitment to public safety and their ability to handle tense situations with professionalism.

As the Newcastle POP Unit enters the final stages of their training for the SWAT Challenge, Sergeant Zikalala took a moment to thank several individuals and organisations for their support.

She expressed her gratitude to Lieutenant Colonel Luvuno, the first female Unit Commander for the Newcastle POP Unit in KZN, and her management team for giving the unit the opportunity to compete. She also acknowledged the contribution of Colonel Ragunanan and his team for their assistance in sharpening the unit’s shooting skills, and Mr Pretorius, a local farm owner who allowed the officers to use his property for shooting practice.

In addition, Sergeant Zikalala thanked Newcastle Planet Fitness and their trainers for providing the team with fitness training programs. “A special thanks also goes out to Sergeant ME Nkosi, who recently obtained his wings in the Counter Assault Team (CAT) program, and Sergeant WN Simelane for their invaluable assistance with fitness training,” she said. Sergeant Zikalala was also thanked by the team for her efforts in coordinating and facilitating the training programs.

“To the team as a whole, thank you for your dedication, commitment, and sacrifices made during the training. All the best in the coming challenge,” she said, closing with a message of thanks to Captain De Waal, the K9 Unit Commander, for his continued support.

As the Newcastle POP Unit is ready to represent Newcastle with pride at the SWAT Challenge, what are your thoughts on their preparations and their upcoming challenge?

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