Pretoria, South Africa – Outgoing Hawks Head General Godfrey Lebeya has called on his successor to prioritize achieving 100% human capital and acquiring modern tools to enhance the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s (DPCI) efficiency.
Speaking at his farewell ceremony, Lebeya reflected on his tenure, highlighting significant achievements in combating crime. Under his leadership, the Hawks arrested 19,266 suspects, secured convictions for 5,141 accused persons, and seized assets worth over R15 billion. Additionally, the unit confiscated 91,000 firearms, 13,000 explosives, and dismantled 207 clandestine drug laboratories, recovering narcotics valued at R5.8 billion.
Lebeya also emphasized the importance of addressing unresolved operational challenges, handing over a legacy report to his deputy to guide the agency’s future leadership.
Despite acknowledging South Africa’s ongoing crime struggles, Lebeya expressed confidence in Police Minister Senzo Mchunu’s strategies, citing statistical improvements in crime reduction.
Before concluding his service, Lebeya awarded letters of appreciation to Hawks officials, urging them to uphold integrity and elevate the unit’s effectiveness. His successor will inherit both a robust legacy and pressing demands for modernization in South Africa’s fight against organized crime.