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After serving in the police for 26 years the well-liked communications officer of the Mfuleni police, WO November Filander, is retiring.
Filander, also known as Neville by his family and friends, are sometimes described as the “the face” of Mfuleni police station because of his jovial and “allemansvriend” relationship with people.
“As I approach the end of my police career, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had to make a difference in the lives of others. While I’ll miss the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes with police work, I’m excited to embark on a new chapter and fulfill my God-ordained calling and invest in our family business,” says Filander, who is also a preacher.
After completing his matric at Langeberg High School in Robertson in 1992, Filander pursued his aspiration of serving in the police service.
“I briefly served in the army in 1993 before joining the police service in 1995. My journey in the police service has spanned 26 years, with a three-year break from 2014 to 2017. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving the community in Bishop Lavis, Provincial Police Media Centre, and Mfuleni police station.
“One of the most significant periods of my career was during my time at Bishop Lavis police station in the mid-1990s. I was part of a specialised task team dedicated to maintaining community safety during a volatile period marked by conflict between gangs and Pagad. This experience underscored the importance of resilience and dedication in the face of adversity,” says Filander.
Over the years he has held various roles within the police service that includes social crime prevention officer, reservist coordinator, and communication officer.
“I’ve also had the opportunity to contribute to media communication efforts and engage in crime prevention initiatives aimed at building safer communities. What stands out most to me in my police career is the resilience and professionalism demonstrated by some of my colleagues, particularly when facing pressure from superiors and the community,” he says.
Just like people have come to know him, Filander uses his parting voice to speak about the people he values most. “I’m deeply grateful for the invaluable contributions of community volunteers, who selflessly devote their time and efforts to supporting victims and survivors of crime. Without them my work would have been very difficult,” he says.
