On Monday, 19 May 2025, following the devastating fire outbreak that left Mmathubudukwane Police Station in ruins, the Botswana Police Service (BPS) leadership returned to Mmathubudukwane Village to provide much‑needed psycho‑social support to emotionally depleted officers. The blaze, which tore through the historic station late last month, not only destroyed vital infrastructure but also affected the emotional well‑being of the officers who have long called the station—and its surrounding community—their second home.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr Solomon Mantswe, began by acknowledging the deep sense of loss felt by those present. “I know you loved this station and its environs,” he said, his voice heavy with empathy. “I know many of you feel overwhelmed and drained. Please rest assured that BPS leadership is committed to restoring serenity and supporting your mental health every step of the way.”
Mr Mantswe outlined the swift interventions already put in place to mitigate the impact of the fire. In collaboration with Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) and Botswana Telecommunications, BPS engineers worked around the clock to restore electricity and key telephone lines, enabling officers to remain connected with both headquarters and the community they serve. Furniture and stationery have also been supplied, ensuring that even in a temporary location, officers can continue to assist members of the public without interruption.
“The scene was heartbreaking,” Mr Mantswe continued, “but what matters most is the welfare of our people. We will not rest until your working environment—and your peace of mind—are fully restored.” He called on the officers to lean on one another and to draw strength from the BPS’s core values: Botho, Excellence, Integrity and Teamwork.
Deputy Commissioner for Operations, Mr Katlholo Mosimanegape, echoed these sentiments, urging the officers to remain resolute. “Tough times pass,” he reminded them. “Your professionalism and dedication have always been your strongest assets. Continue to serve with diligence and compassion; your community needs you now more than ever.”
Earlier in the day, the BPS Occupational Health and Safety Unit had conducted individual and group counselling sessions on-site. Skilled counsellors led exercises designed to help officers process trauma, manage stress and rebuild resilience. One officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed gratitude for the intervention: “In the presence of God, we know nothing is impossible. Today’s support reminds us that we are not alone, and that listening to the voice of our community will guide us through recovery.”
Despite the station’s physical loss, the mood among the officers was cautiously optimistic. Many spoke of renewed determination to “listen to the customer’s voice”—that is, the concerns and needs of the villagers who rely on the station for safety and security. “We’re rebuilding more than bricks and mortar,” one sergeant commented. “We’re rebuilding trust and hope.”
As part of the ongoing recovery plan, BPS engineers are conducting structural assessments to determine the extent of the damage and to map out a restoration timeline. Meanwhile, temporary offices have been set up in a nearby community centre to ensure uninterrupted policing services. The BPS leadership has also committed to regular follow‑up visits and continuous counselling support until full restoration is achieved.
The Mmathubudukwane community, for its part, has rallied behind the officers. Local leaders have organized supply drives for additional office essentials, and residents have volunteered to assist with administrative tasks, underscoring the strong bond between the station and the village it protects.
By prioritizing both physical rebuilding and emotional recovery, the Botswana Police Service aims not only to restore the Mmathubudukwane station but to strengthen the resilience of its officers and the trust of the community. As Mr Mantswe concluded, “We rise from adversity through unity and compassion. Together, we will rebuild, recover and continue serving with pride.”
