Further promotions followed, with Khambule becoming a sergeant in 1997 and a warrant officer in 1999.

In 2018, he was promoted to captain and served as a shift commander in the Detective Branch. He also worked in the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, where his investigative work earned him provincial recognition.

A career built on dedication

Khambule’s investigations resulted in more than 11 life sentences and a combined 139 years of imprisonment. He was also named the province’s Best Detective in the FCS category and attended specialised training in France.

Colleagues remember him as a humble and hardworking officer who consistently went beyond the call of duty.

“Even when he is sick, he can be found at work, working on his cases,” said Sonja Stander, who worked alongside him in the FCS Unit.

Asked about the secret to his success, Khambule credited hard work, dedication and respect.

“All it takes is hard work, dedication and respect. You don’t need more than that,” he said.

He added that respect was fundamental to both professional and personal relationships.

“Respect is the most important thing. It’s not something that can be bought in a shop; it comes from within you. If you show respect to others, you receive it in return,” he said.

As he enters retirement, colleagues at Dundee Police Station have wished him well and thanked him for his years of service.

Khambule plans to spend more time exercising and with his family. A regular road runner, he is looking forward to having more time to pursue his interests outside policing.