A JMPD officer is being hailed a hero after a photo of him helping a woman change a tyre on a busy Johannesburg freeway goes viral, highlighting his kindness and bravery.
Johannesburg, South Africa (24 June 2024) – South African police and traffic officers often find themselves in the news for the wrong reasons. However, at Good Things Guy, we love to celebrate the good news!
Recently, a heartwarming photo of a Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officer on his knees, helping a motorist change a tyre, went viral, reminding us of the kindness and dedication that exists within our communities.
Over the weekend, an X (Twitter) user named Buhlenomuhle shared the touching photos. “There are good traffic officers out here; you are appreciated,” the post read, capturing the attention and admiration of many.
The photo, however, dates back to October 2019 and was initially shared by Kushie Pietersen.
The act of kindness occurred on October 2nd, as detailed by Pietersen, a South African Police Officer who took to Facebook to share the inspiring moment.
“Driving on the M1 just next to Woodmead Retail Park at 07:15, this wonderful sight meets the eye. Metro cop on his knees in uniform assisting this distressed female in changing her tyre. We need more like him,” Pietersen wrote.
The officer’s name remains unknown, though some X users speculate that the helpful officer might be Officer Hlongwane. We have contacted JMPD for confirmation.
In the images, the female driver of the white Hyundai Grand i10 can be seen standing by, watching over the officer as he diligently changes the tyre.
The heartwarming post has collectively garnered thousands of likes and re-shares, accompanied by numerous positive comments. Twitter users have hailed the officer as a hero for his willingness to lend a hand and for his bravery in parking the marked JMPD vehicle at an angle to protect the stranded motorist from the danger of oncoming traffic on the busy freeway.
This story reminds us of the good that exists within our law enforcement agencies, where officers go beyond their call of duty to serve and protect. Some of the social media comments beautifully reflect this sentiment.
“Well done to the JMPD officer; this is Ubuntu, it’s service beyond the call of duty,” remarked Prof Thuli Madonsela.
“That’s the citizen commitment all South Africans need to commit to. ‘Champion South Africa,'” added Ashraf Garda.
“As a South African, I am happy to see more and more positive stories about our fellow officers and men in uniform in general. This country needs some good, actually lots of good, that we know people exchange daily but never make the headlines,” shared Modern Day Native.
For more uplifting stories about the JMPD, be sure to check out Good Things Guy. This story, like many others, showcases the compassion and commitment of our officers, bringing hope and positivity to our daily lives.
Here’s to the heroes among us, who shine brightly even in the most challenging times!
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