SAPS: What you need to know about SA’s top cops
The SAPS is made up of various units and ranks which work together to fight crime in South Africa. Get to know the top cops.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) exists to serve and protect Southern Africa.
Its members work to interrupt, intercept, and investigate crime. Special units are tasked with investigations, raids, and searches. Members work a high-risk job, which is often underappreciated by their communities.
SAPS has existed since 1995.
Who are this department’s top brass?
Most people can’t name the country’s top officers. Can you?
Dedicated individuals govern SAPS, including the Minister and Deputy Minister of Police.
Here’s everything about the country’s top cops.
THE SAPS NATIONAL COMMISSIONER
South Africa’s National Commissioner is Lieutenant General Fannie Masemola.
The National Commissioner works with the Minister, actively involved in their operations and decisionmaking.
Lt. Gen. Masemola was first the Deputy Commissioner, and appointed to his current rank later.
His current position happened in 2022.
Ms Mangwashi Victoria “Riah” Phiyega was a previous commissioner, according to government sites.
Yes, there are also Provincial Commissioners.
THE SAPS DEPUTY MINISTER
The current SAPS Deputy Minister is Cassel Charlie Mathale.
Deputy Ministers work alongside Commissioners and others, representing the department in parliament.
He served as Premier of Limpopo (from 2009 to 2013). He was also Deputy Minister of Small Business Development before his current appointment to the police service.
THE SAPS MINISTER
A minister governs each government department. There are also provincial ministers, who work alongside national ones.
The Minister is in charge of each department. They have important decisions to make every day. It’s not an easy job!
Police Minister Bheki Cele was born 22 April, 1952.
He’s a struggle veteran who has a long, complicated history with the department.
President Ramaphosa appointed him again in 2019.
IMPORTANT HOTLINES
Know your SAPS.
Know where to reach your local police station.
Visit this page for head office contact details. Contact 10111 or 112 for emergencies. Report criminal activities and suspicions to CrimeLine: +27 86 001 0111.
Report SASSA fraud to +27 800 601 011.
A report may be anonymous.
These hotlines could save your life.
Know who to call.