Three City of Cape Town officers have been commended for stepping in when others needed a hero.
Cape Town, South Africa (09 October 2026) – The City of Cape Town has honoured three officers for their individual acts of bravery!
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, paid tribute to Metro Police Constable Moeneeb Coetzee, LEAP officer Brent Williams and SPCA Senior Inspector Deirdre Thomas, who were lauded for their dedication and for going beyond the call of duty.
Each of them saw someone in need, and each of them stepped up.
In August, Constable Coetzee came to the rescue of first-time mom Micaela Katz, who had gone into premature labour. Her husband, Daniel, was trying to rush her to a hospital in Claremont from the Cape Town CBD, right in the middle of peak traffic, when he flagged down Constable Coetzee.
Realising that Micaela was in distress, the constable escorted the couple across busy highways and intersections, at times bringing traffic to a complete halt to get them through! When they arrived at the hospital, it turned out the baby was in distress and needed an emergency operation.
Micaela gave birth to a healthy baby boy, and the proud parents say doctors told them the swift action helped save their son.
“Micaela gave birth to a healthy baby boy and during the surprise commendation event yesterday, Constable Coetzee got the chance to meet the little boy he helped save.” shares the City of Cape Town.
In September, Officer Williams was on routine patrol at Monwabisi Beach when he spotted someone in the waves while two onlookers called for help.
“Officer Williams ran into the ocean at Monwabisi Beach to save a young boy from drowning.” shares the city.
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“The minute I got to him, I felt relieved. I knew he would be okay,” says Officer Williams.
Then, an incredible act of compassion by SPCA Senior Inspector Thomas was recognised, too.
During an incident in Belhar, motorists were driving past what looked like a deceased animal in the street. Senior Inspector Thomas, who was on the way to her best friend’s memorial, stopped, picked the animal up off the road and contacted the SPCA for help. Sadly, the dog couldn’t be saved, but it was cared for with dignity. Her kindness was celebrated as her story made headlines across the country.
Alderman Smith says the three officers showed exceptional courage without question. How lucky are we to have heroes who walk amongst us?
“All three officers showed exceptional courage during trying incidents without question. They simply saw a situation that required their help and sprang into action. I am incredibly proud of them and their selfless deeds. The commendations are a small token of our appreciation for what they have done, the lives they saved and those they’ve assisted,” he says.
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