This Women’s Month, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is honouring female police officers whose empathy, resolve, and unwavering commitment continually transform the lives of women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
Behind every successful prosecution of a gender-based violence perpetrator stands a dedicated investigator who refuses to give up until justice is fully served.
Through the national “Women Leading the Reset Agenda” campaign, SAPS celebrates women whose leadership, professionalism, and dedication strengthen policing and restore public confidence.
As part of the campaign, SAPS is honouring Sergeant Sharlot Luphondo-Mkansi today, an investigator serving in the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Phalaborwa.
For nearly 20 years, Luphondo-Mkansi has dedicated herself to ensuring that women and children receive vital protection. In every case she handles, she demonstrates profound professionalism, unwavering integrity, and a sincere commitment to caring for victims of violence.
Luphondo-Mkansi said: “Every survivor deserves to know that someone believes them and will fight for them. As investigators, we carry the responsibility of restoring hope where fear once existed. Justice begins when victims know they are not alone”.
Raised by a resilient single mother, she developed a strong sense of discipline, respect and service from an early age. Inspired to protect vulnerable people, she joined the South African Police Service in January 2006.
After serving at various stations, Luphondo-Mkansi found her calling in 2017 at the Phalaborwa Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, helping secure lengthy prison terms and life sentences for offenders targeting women and children.
Luphondo-Mkansi balanced policing and raising three children while earning a Diploma, a Bachelor of Technology, and, in 2026, an Honours Degree in Policing.
Her dedication earned her the title of Best Investigating Officer in Mopani District for the 2024/2025 financial year, recognising her professionalism and exceptional skills.
Her career highlights include solving a serial rape case in Phalaborwa, where a man lured women seeking transport into his vehicle to kidnap, rob, and rape them.
Meticulously connecting evidence and analysing the modus operandi alongside Crime Intelligence, her determination led to the arrest of Moses Shilabi in April 2024.
On June 3, 2026, the Polokwane High Court sentenced Shilabi to four life terms plus 70 years’ imprisonment for multiple counts of rape, kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, housebreaking, and theft.
Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said: “Through her professionalism, integrity, and commitment to protecting the vulnerable, Luphondo-Mkansi truly embodies the SAPS Reset Agenda.”
nokubonga.ndlovu@inl.co.za
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