901 police officers awarded for dedicated service
The Botswana Police Service (BPS) hosted its prestigious annual Medal Awards Ceremony at the Special Support Group Grounds this morning, to pay tribute to the unwavering commitment and long-standing service of its officers.
In his dual capacity as President of the Republic of Botswana and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Advocate Duma Boko officiated the event and personally presented medals to 901 deserving police officers. The awards serve as national recognition of the officers’ tireless efforts in protecting communities and upholding law and order across the country.
The honours conferred included the Botswana Police Medal for Meritorious Service (BPM), Botswana Police Distinguished Service Order Medal (DSO), Botswana Police Jubilee Service Medal (JSM), and Botswana Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (LSGCM). These medals symbolise not only years of dedicated service, butalso the discipline and integrity demonstrated by the recipients throughout their careers.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police and Public Relations Officer, Near Bagali, the Botswana Police Medal for Meritorious Service is awarded to officers who have served for a minimum of 12 years while maintaining high standards of diligence, professionalism, and exemplary conduct.
He further explained that the Distinguished Service Order Medal is reserved for officers who have demonstrated exceptional devotion to duty over a period of 30 years. The Jubilee Service Medal is presented to officers with at least 25 years of honourable service, and the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is awarded to those who have completed 18 years of continuous service without any serious disciplinary infractions.
One of the day’s recipients, Assistant Commissioner Mogorosi Dibotelo, was honoured with the Distinguished Service Order Medal. Speaking at the ceremony, Dibotelo expressed deep gratitude and pride in receiving the distinction, describing it as a meaningful milestone in his more than 30 years of service to the nation. He noted that the award was not just a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the collective dedication within the police force.
Another decorated officer, Assistant Commissioner Oabajang Basitang, received the Botswana Police Jubilee Service Medal. In an interview with The Voice, Basitang reflected on her journey since joining the BPS in 1998 as a Cadet Inspector. Having steadily risen through the ranks, she now serves as the Head of Planning and Development at BPS Headquarters. Beaming with pride, she shared her joy at being recognised for her enduring commitment.
“This medal is proof that hard work, loyalty, and discipline truly pay off. I started as an Inspector, and today I stand as an Assistant Commissioner. It’s been a fulfilling journey,” she said.
The ceremony stood as a proud and emotional moment for the Botswana Police Service, highlighting the selfless dedication of the men and women in uniform. It served as a powerful reminder that service, discipline, and integrity remain the cornerstone of the nation’s law enforcement legacy.
