Maj. Gen. Thabang Lesia is the new provincial police commissioner of the Free State and will serve five years in the powerful position. National Police Commissioner Gen. Fannie Masemola, announced the appointment on Monday 30 March.

Lesia served as the deputy provincial commissioner responsible for policing until his appointment to the new position.

He succeeds Lt Gen. Baile Motswenyane, who retired earlier this year, having served since 2019.

Masemola expressed confidence in the ability of Lesia, whose experience spans 39 years in the police service.

“With your experience as both a seasoned detective and an accomplished operational commander, I am confident in your ability to provide strong strategic direction and sound judgment – particularly at a time when crime patterns are evolving and organised crime continues to intensify,” said Masemola.

Lesia’s journey in the police began as a student constable in 1986. He then became a detective and later served as a detective commander at the Selosesha Police Station in Thaba Nchu. His ability saw him advance to the role of provincial commander for organised crime.

Lesia holds a BTech degree and a national diploma in Policing. He has also served as station commander of the Virginia Police Station, holding the rank of colonel. He was later promoted to brigadier, as station commander of the Thabong Police Station in 2010.

In 2016, Lesia was promoted to major general as cluster commander of Mangaung, and in 2019 he was appointed as deputy provincial commissioner responsible for policing.

“Given your experience, your credentials, and your deep understanding of both operational and investigative policing, I have full confidence in your ability to lead the police in this province,” said Masemola.

Maj. Gen. Apaphia Modise was the acting provincial commissioner in this transitional period, and Masemola said she equally contributed to the stability and leadership in the province.

“The stability and leadership you provided in the absence of a permanent provincial commissioner are deeply appreciated,” he said.