31 Jul 2024

The Botswana Police Service (BPS) will stage a two-day celebration of its 140 years of existence.

Planned for Friday, the first day of the events has been reserved for awards, where the President, Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi will pin medals on more than 1 400 deserving officers.

The medal award ceremony will be held at Special Support Group parade ground in Gaborone.

A media release from BPS says the celebrations will continue at the National Stadium on Saturday, an event which will be open to members of the public.

President Masisi will be among the multitudes of people and dignitaries celebrating the police’s 140 years of existence.

Local artistes, Han-C and Monnamogolo wa Thulaganyo are lined up to entertain the gathering at the National Stadium.

Other activities of the day will include air display, fire acrobatics and K9 dog display.

The release says the awarding of medals is a way of appreciating members of the BPS for their outstanding services and conduct in executing police duties.

Medals consist of Botswana Police Meritorious Service (BPM), awarded to police officers for a service of meritorious nature and it is awarded to a candidate, who has served for 12 years and set high example of his/her conduct and diligence.

The Botswana Police Distinguished Service Order (DSO) Medal is awarded to police officers who have distinguished themselves by devotion to duty. It is attained after serving for a period of 30 years.

The Botswana Police Jubilee Service Medal (JSM) is awarded to police officers who have served at least 25 years and have shown by their conduct and character that they are worthy of the honour.

The Botswana Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (LSGCM) is awarded to police officers who have served for continuous period of 18 years without among others not convicted of any offence of a nature deemed to bring the name of Botswana Police Service into disrepute, has not been frequently guilty of minor disciplinary offences. Ends