ZAMDELA – He has served his community with pride, but this top police officer has now called it quits.

Captain Gift Matsheka has officially retired after serving his country for more than three decades. According to the 60-year-old, his calling was ignited from his youth days.

Matsheka recalls how, as a school boy, he admired men and women in blue, and how fate found him.

“I started my journey in 1990. I was inspired by several people to become a police officer, including my uncle, General Louis Gibson, who was deeply respected for his dignity and honour,” he said.

In his early years, young Matsheka stepped into uniform with a sense of purpose that has never left him.

“My humble beginnings started in Sasolburg until I went on to serve in VIP protection in Bloemfontein. I later joined Forensics and Investigations before assuming my role as a commander for the Zamdela FCS unit, where I led with humility, wisdom, and strength,” he said proudly.

Touching on his proudest moments in the service, Matsheka recounted how he sent away a serial rapist in 2001 for many years.

“My highlight was when I scored a conviction for a notorious serial rapists terrorising the Vaal community. The perpetrator was convicted of 14 counts for 207 years behind bars,” he said.

With dedication leading Matsheka, he leaves young officers with a simple message.

“Be committed, treat every victim with empathy, and never stop learning, because every case is a voice crying for justice.”

Free State Provincial Head of FCS Brigadier Herna Els praised Matsheka’s remarkable legacy.

“Captain Matsheka was not only a disciplined and respectful leader, but also a true gentleman. Whether conducting official duties or simply engaging with a colleague, he brought grace, pride, and deep faith to every interaction. His presence as a programme director during our events was always inspiring. What I admire most was his relationship with the Lord – a compass that guided his every step,” Els said.