Monica’s Journey To Become A Fearless Diver Who Saves Lives

Photo Credit: South African Police Service

For the longest time, Monica Delport always knew she wanted to become a police officer. But after serving the rural community of Zamdela on the frontlines, she felt the call to do more. Today, as a skilled diver for the SAPS in the cold, murky waters of the Vaal dam and surrounding rivers, her role is clear: to bring closure to those left behind.

Free State, South Africa (05 June 2025) – Raised by a father who was a respected police officer and inspired by her aunt, a member of the elite K9 Parliamentary Unit in Cape Town, Monica Delport knew from very early on that it was in their footsteps that she wanted to follow.

Monica grew up in Sasolburg, surrounded by the strength of service. Her father and aunt were constant reminders that a life dedicated to others is a life worth living. That inspiration led her to join the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 2019.

According to SAPS, from the moment she stepped into the Graaff-Reinet Training College, Monica’s determination and discipline stood out, earning her the Best Overall Student and the Fittest Female Recruit awards that year.

After serving on the front lines of community complaints at Zamdela CSC, Monica felt the call to do more, to go where few others could or would.

Acting on this desire, Monica joined an Open Water Diving course and the following year, earned her Advanced Diving certification.

“It was during an endangered species operation at Vaaldam in 2022 that she encountered the SAPS Diving Unit and made her interest known.

“Her commitment didn’t go unnoticed. Slowly, she was drawn into official operations and now, as a learner diver, she plays a critical role in bringing missing persons home,” SAPS said.

Monica further paid out of her own pocket to earn a skipper’s licence, and since March this year, she has had the authority to operate SAPS vessels on search and rescue missions.

This year, SAPS is observing Youth Month by celebrating its young men and women in blue who go above and beyond the call of duty.

Based at Zamdela Rural Safety in the Free State, Monica has quietly become one of the most dependable helping hands in some of the province’s most heartbreaking moments, search and recovery missions following drowning incidents.

When tragedy strikes, Monica dives in, literally, to help grieving families find answers when their worst fears come true.

“To give closure to families is the most rewarding part of this work,” says Constable Delport.

“When you’re down there and you find what you’re looking for—it’s emotional, but it’s also a kind of peace. You know you’ve done something that truly matters.”

Monica now has her sights set on the SAPS K9 Search and Rescue Unit, where she hopes to combine her diving skills with the power of K9 tracking to save even more lives, or help find the lost.

Constable Monica Delport continues to rise for the people who need her most. Her journey is a testament to dedication, faith, and fearless service. And for those looking to follow in her footsteps, she offers this heartfelt advice: