Thabang Lesia appointed as new Free State Police Commissioner

Major General Thabang Lesia has been appointed the new Free State Police Commissioner and promoted to Lieutenant General.

The post became vacant after the retirement of former Commissioner Baile Motswenyane in January.

Lesia brings 39 years of service, having joined as a student constable in 1986 and rising to deputy provincial commissioner in 2019.

His appointment was announced by National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola in Bloemfontein on Monday.

Lesia’s appointment comes just a day after Masemola finalised the reappointment of KwaZulu-Natal Police Chief Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Announcing Lesia’s new role, Masemola called on officers to act with integrity as they step up the fight against crime, amid intense scrutiny of the service.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is being scrutinised by two platforms, probing allegations of criminal infiltration within the justice system.

Masemola, who is also facing legal challenges and is expected to appear in court, said that officers must remain focused on their duties despite the criticism.

He, however, denies any wrongdoing linked to the multi-million rand SAPS tender, awarded to Medicare24, a company owned by alleged crime boss Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala.

Masemola has meanwhile acknowledged that rebuilding public trust in the SAPS is now critical.