42-year-old Sergeant Felicity Balie, an investigator attached to the Paarl Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in the Western Cape
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is honouring its women in blue through a national Women’s Month campaign, “Women Leading the Reset Agenda,” in celebration of Women’s Month.
This year’s campaign pays homage to the dedication, resilience, and professionalism of female police officers who protect women, children, and other vulnerable groups while advancing the SAPS Reset Agenda through ethical leadership, accountability, professionalism, compassion, and service excellence.
Today, SAPS introduces 42-year-old Sergeant Felicity Balie, an investigator attached to the Paarl Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in the Western Cape.
Sergeant Balie joined the South African Police Service in 2006 and has dedicated 20 years to serving her community.
In 2012, she was appointed to the FCS Unit, where she developed extensive experience in investigating crimes against women and children.
Her commitment, professionalism and consistent performance were recognised when she was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2019.
For Sergeant Balie, working in the FCS environment is about far more than investigating cases.
It is a calling rooted in her desire to help those who are vulnerable.
Growing up in a poor community, she witnessed children suffering and women experiencing domestic violence.
Those experiences shaped her determination to make a difference in the lives of others.
“I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and help in times of need.
Be that light in that dark tunnel,” says Sergeant Balie.
Her dedication was recently reflected in a successful investigation that resulted in the conviction of an accused in the Malmesbury Regional Court.
The matter involved three child victims who had suffered prolonged abuse.
Following a detailed investigation and court proceedings in which the victims’ experiences and the impact of the crimes were placed before the court, the accused was sentenced to life imprisonment on three counts of rape.
For Sergeant Balie, the outcome represented more than a successful prosecution.
It meant that a family could finally begin closing a painful chapter in their lives.
“I felt relieved, happy and grateful to God,” she says, recalling the day judgment was delivered.
“Just knowing that this family can finally close this chapter makes every challenge worthwhile.”
It is the transformation of victims that continues to motivate her.
“To watch the trauma of one day be transformed into a beautiful story, of closure and a return to normal life for my victims, is the best feeling.
That keeps me going,” she says.
As a wife and mother of two, Sergeant Balie understands the challenge of balancing a demanding career with family life.
Yet, she says, her family remains supportive of her commitment to her work.
Women’s Month holds particular significance for her.
She believes that serving women and children affected by gender-based violence requires passion, patience and compassion.
Her message to victims is one of reassurance.
“What happened to you was not because of what you did, said or even initiated. There is help out there.
You don’t need to go through this alone.”
Sergeant Balie’s 20 years in SAPS, including more than a decade in the FCS environment, demonstrate the difference that dedication and compassion can make.
Through her work, she continues to stand up for those who need a voice and to ensure that victims are supported throughout their journey towards justice and healing.
My Blood is Blue. Women Leading the Reset Agenda. Protecting Communities. Delivering Justice. Restoring Public Trust.
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