WATCH: Pottie Potgieter rises to lieutenant colonel after 28 years of service
Pottie Potgieter, who made headlines for airlifting a crocodile during a dangerous mission, has been promoted in a ceremony at Mbombela Stadium.
Lieutenant Colonel Pottie Potgieter of Visible Policing and Police Emergency Services, formerly a captain in the Ehlanzeni Diving Unit, has been promoted after 28 years of service in Mpumalanga.
Potgieter was celebrated in a ceremony at Mbombela Stadium, where 142 other SAPS officials were promoted across the ranks of warrant officer, captain, lieutenant colonel, and colonel.
Nearly 3 decades of service
Potgieter has worked in the province for nearly three decades and saved countless lives.
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“I would like to thank the entire Mpumalanga for their support and vouching for me. This would not have been possible without your support,” he said.
He assured the community that he would still be visible on the scene and would actively engage with community members.
Recognised for crocodile recovery operation
Earlier this year, Potgieter made headlines when he was hoisted from a SANParks helicopter into the crocodile-infested Komati River, where he secured a crocodile using a rope under extremely dangerous conditions.
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The animal, which had already been euthanised, was then lifted and relocated, enabling SAPS and other experts to recover the remains of a person believed to be missing. Potgieter was honoured by the Mpumalanga government for his bravery.
Promotions ahead of the festive season operations
The ceremony was attended by the deputy provincial commissioner for policing, Major General Samuel Sekgobela, district commissioners, the DPCI provincial head, brigadiers, and station commanders.
During the keynote address, the provincial commissioner congratulated the promoted members, emphasising that promotion is not a gift but recognition for hard work, dedication, discipline and commitment to serving the people of South Africa.
Sekgobela also indicated that the promotions came at a critical time ahead of the 2026 local government elections and on the eve of the launch of the 2026/27 Safer Festive Season Operation.
“Firstly, lead by example. Do not ask your members to do what you cannot do yourself. Be the first to arrive and the last to leave. Be disciplined. Wear your new rank with humility, not arrogance. Let this promotion be a motivation,” concluded Sekgobela.
