By Johnathan Paoli
Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae has welcomed the appointment of Major-General Thabang Solomon Lesia as the new Provincial Police Commissioner, describing the move as a critical step in strengthening the fight against crime and rebuilding public trust in policing.
In a statement on Monday, Letsoha-Mathae said the appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the Free State.
“This appointment comes at a critical time in our province, where the fight against crime and the restoration of public trust in law enforcement remain a top priority,” she said.
The premier highlighted Lesia’s roots in the province, expressing confidence that his local understanding would enhance policing outcomes.
“We are particularly encouraged that Major General Lesia is a Free Stater, who understands the unique challenges, dynamics, and needs of our communities,” she said.
With 39 years of policing experience, Lesia began his career as a student constable in 1986 and rose through the ranks, serving in a range of operational and strategic roles.
His experience includes stints as Detective Commander at Seloseha Police Station in Thaba Nchu, Station Commander at Virginia and Thabong police stations, Cluster Commander in Mangaung, and Provincial Commander for Organised Crime.
Most recently, he served as Deputy Provincial Commissioner responsible for policing in the Free State.
Letsoha-Mathae said his extensive experience and institutional knowledge position him well to address the province’s crime challenges.
“With over three decades of experience in policing and a deep understanding of operational environments, Major General Lesia brings the kind of leadership, stability, and institutional knowledge required to strengthen crime prevention and improve service delivery across the province,” she said.
The provincial government has prioritised tackling serious crimes, including gender-based violence and femicide, drug-related offences and organised criminal activity.
The premier said authorities are ready to work closely with the new commissioner to intensify interventions.
“The Provincial Government looks forward to working closely with the new Commissioner to intensify efforts against crime, including gender-based violence and femicide, drug-related crimes, and organized criminal activities,” she said.
“We are confident that his appointment will contribute positively towards building safer communities and enhancing cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the people of the Free State.”
Lesia holds a BTech degree and a National Diploma in Policing, and takes over the top policing post in the province following the retirement of Baile Motswenyane at the end of January.
His appointment comes against the backdrop of a complex legacy left by his predecessor, Motswenyane, whose tenure combined notable achievements with sustained criticism from political stakeholders.
Motswenyane, who served more than 35 years in policing, made history as the first woman in South Africa to be appointed an area commander and oversaw policing across 112 stations in the Free State.
During her tenure, she led key initiatives, including the opening of the Sonskyn Police Station and introduced school drilling competitions aimed at improving police visibility.
She also presided over memorial initiatives, including the unveiling of a Wall of Remembrance at Parkweg Police Station.
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