Dear Portfolio Committee on Police,

I write directly to the current committee chair, Mr Ian Cameron MP.

I am a 59 year old man who joined the police in 1983. In April 2023 I attained 40 years service and held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During the course of 2022 I decided to retire a year early on 30 September 2023.

Sadly 3 weeks before I retired I experienced severe pain in my back, and 6 weeks later was diagnosed with small cell carcinoma (cancer) which was present in my right lung, liver, thoracic lymph nodes and my back, where the tumours had lodged and permanently damaged two lumbar vertabrea.

Despite the above, and my severe frustration during my last decade of service as a Management Information Officer (MIO) at Milnerton I remain committed to serving the cause of just, equitable and efficient policing in South Africa.

In my last post I developed considerable knowledge of SAPS systems, both mainframe and so called BI (or Global Access system, GACS) windows-based systems. These systems, although clumsy and antiquated, can often show how well (or poorly) a detective branch for example, is being run at a glance.

My offer is thus; that should you require any support, or dare I say advice, involving the use of these systems or any other SAPS related matter into which I have gained some insight over my 4 decade career.

This offer is made at no charge and entirely at your discretion and behest, bearing in mind my current state of health.

My best wishes and congratulations on your appointment. I know you will make a difference.

Kind Regards,
Mark Romburgh
Lt Col SAPS (Retired)
079 942 0256
ltcolromburgh@gmail.com