Hawks national head bows out
In addition to his policing work, Lebeya is an accomplished author. His book Understanding Organised Crime, based on his doctoral thesis, explores global trends in organised crime.
The Gauteng Provincial Office of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) paid tribute to Lieutenant General Dr Adv Seswantsho Godfrey Lebeya, who is retiring from his post as national head of the DPCI in a ceremony held at the Kempton Park Civic Centre on April 11.
Directed by Lieutenant Colonel Sithole, the event began with the singing of the National Anthem, followed by the Code of Conduct and Oath of Office, presented by Lieutenant Colonel Ziqubu.
The ceremony honoured Lebeya’s distinguished career and remarkable leadership, which has spanned decades and culminated in his appointment as the head of the DPCI in 2018.
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Lebeya, who holds the Service of Excellence Gold (SOEG) award in the SAPS, began his career as a police constable.
Through hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks to become the Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection in the SAPS, and later, the National Head of the DPCI.
He also chaired the National Priority Operational Committee, formerly known as the Anti-Corruption Task Team (ACTT).
“In Northern Sotho, there is a poem titled Sello sa Mokgalabje, which states, ‘Bana baka ake le nkadime ditsebe,’ meaning ‘My children, may you lend me your ears’.
“As I step off the stage, another will step on. It has been a reasonably fulfilling assignment,” said Lebeya.
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During his tenure, Lebeya led the DPCI in dismantling several criminal syndicates and securing numerous convictions in high-profile cases, including those involving illegal mining, drug manufacturing, cash-in-transit heists, and corruption.
He shared some key statistics:
“In this period, the DPCI arrested 17 136 suspects and secured 4 677 convictions.
“We dismantled 214 clandestine laboratories. In the last quarter alone, 32 arrests were made for the killing of police officials,” he stated.
Lebeya also acknowledged challenges, particularly in staffing, and noted that he would be presenting a legacy report to ensure a smooth handover to his successor. He encouraged his colleagues to continue striving for excellence and uphold the values of honesty, fairness, and integrity.
“The success or failure of my successor will depend on your support. I urge you all to back whoever takes over. Continue to display honesty, and fairness, and maintain your integrity beyond reproach,” he said.
In addition to his policing work, Lebeya is an accomplished author. His book Understanding Organised Crime, based on his doctoral thesis, explores global trends in organised crime.
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He also authored Organised Crime in the Southern African Development Community, with a focus on motor vehicle theft, published by LAP-Germany.
Provincial Head of the DPCI in Gauteng, Ebrahim Kadwa, delivered a tribute to Lebeya, praising his remarkable achievements and steadfast dedication.
“This is truly a grand finale for us as Team Hawks Gauteng to mark this memorable and historic occasion,” said Kadwa.
“Lebeya’s exemplary, ethical, and visionary leadership has firmly established the Hawks as a national brand. His guidance has inspired frontline officers and helped elevate the unit to become a source of national pride.”
Kadwa added that Lebeya’s legacy of innovation, integrity, and service would continue to inspire members of the DPCI for years to come.
