Police officer ties pupils’ shoelaces while fighting crime

For warrant officer Leonard Shilongo, being a police officer is more than just a job – it’s a calling.

Regardless of challenges faced while on duty, he continues to serve the community.

Shilongo is the unit commander of the Ongwediva Traffic Law-Enforcement Unit.

He joined the police 22 years ago.

Keeping the streets safe and ensuring the safety of those around him is his priority, he says.

“There are challenges everywhere. I experience challenges almost every day. Some are easy to handle, while some are difficult,” he says.

“Many motorists do not comply with road regulations, which can make our work difficult. Some are not approachable or polite with traffic officers.

“Some may even get physical, mostly when under the influence of alcohol,” Shilongo says.

The father of three says he wanted to be a police officer since he was a little boy.

He was honoured for his work by members of the public and Okandjengedi Primary School in December.

Shilongo received the officer of the year certificate from the school for helping pupils cross a busy road safely every day, and helping them tie their shoelaces.

“I realised pupils are from different homes and different backgrounds, and it’s my social obligation as police officer and a parent to help my fellow parents and guardians where they fail,” he says. “It’s a great honour to know the community I’m serving recognises my outstanding performance. This means a lot me,” he says.

Oshana regional police commander commissioner Naftal Lungameni acknowledges Shilongo’s efforts.

He says Shilongo was not only awarded for helping pupils cross the road, but also for going beyond the call of duty.

Lungameni says a motorist called him to tell him about Shilongo’s acts of kindness after he had taken a picture of Shilongo tying pupils’ shoelaces and helping them tuck in their shirts before letting them cross the road.

“I commend him and his team for their great work,” he says.

Lungameni says the police will continue to consider helping other schools too, “building partnerships with our communities and interacting with schools’ leadership”.

Okandjengedi Primary School’s management commended the regional commissioner’s office for allowing the officers to assist the school despite their busy schedule.