Chinese Consulate strengthens ties with Springs SAPS after rescue of kidnapped businessman  

To cement a growing international relationship, the Chinese consulate met with Springs SAPS officials at the police station on May 7.

Deputy counsel general Yujiang Oliver Zhou and counsel Xiaoyu Jeff Guan met to thank the police for their efforts shown when a Chinese national was kidnapped in Springs last year.

The businessman was hijacked and kidnapped on December 7. He was rescued within 24 hours, and three people were arrested.

To show their gratitude, the Chinese consulate renovated the Vispol and the detective garden at the station.
Lieutenant Colonel Siyakudumisa Notisi said, “We are here as a result of the communication we established with these gentlemen. They asked us how they could express their gratitude, and we asked them to revamp our gardens.”

The delegates marvelled at the garden’s beauty during a walkthrough.

“The garden looks beautiful and we are incredibly grateful that we get to appreciate its beauty with the people who made it possible,” Notisi added.

Springs SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Themba Tshabalala expressed hope for a collaborative relationship to help carry out programmes.

“We hope to collaborate more on projects that help bring awareness and education to the youth, such as the Active Sports programmes and the 16 Days of Activism campaign,” he said.

Zhou received a certificate as a token of appreciation. While addressing the delegates, he stressed the importance of working together to alleviate the burden of everyday issues for the police members.

“We know that as the police, you are always on the go, and an initiative like this will help you focus more on assisting the community and ensuring they are safe. We are here to help you so that you can help us,” Zhou said.

Station commander Brigadier Raymond Buthelezi also gave a message of thanks, “The station is no longer the same. We are now proud to walk through it. We hope for more partnerships moving forward,” he said.