More Than a Decade of Service: Lenasia SAPS Detective Commander Colonel Siphokazi Eleonor Thonyama

Colonel Siphokazi Eleanor Thonyama. Photo: Supplied 

Colonel Siphokazi Eleanor Thonyama, a seasoned and dedicated officer, has retired after a remarkable 38-year career with the South African Police Service (SAPS). Originally from Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape and now residing in Ext 7, Migson Manor, her tenure in law enforcement is a testament to her commitment to justice and community service.

Colonel Thonyama began her police career on March 10, 1986, as a Constable at Orlando Police Station in Soweto, serving in Visible Policing and as charge office personnel. Her dedication to duty was evident early on, and by 1990, she had been promoted to Sergeant, taking on the role of Relief Commander at Orlando SAPS. In 1994, she transitioned to the Detective branch, where she became an Investigating Officer, further developing her skills in criminal investigation.

Her career trajectory continued to rise. In 1996, she earned a promotion to Warrant Officer and was appointed Group Leader in Detective Services. Four years later, she became a Captain and took on leadership roles at Brixton Detectives, including acting as Detective Commander.  

In 2004, Colonel Thonyama reached the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and joined the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), where she served as an Investigating Officer. By 2007, she had moved to Naledi Police Station as Detective Commander, and in 2013, she was appointed Detective Commander at Lenasia Police Station. She continued in this role for 11 years, gaining the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community. Her final retirement marks the end of a long, distinguished career in law enforcement.

Reflecting on her service, Colonel Thonyama stated that it had been an honor to serve as a police officer, and her mission throughout her career was always to meet the needs of her community. Despite the challenges she faced, including the constant threat to personal safety and the shortage of resources, she maintained an unwavering focus on her work. She acknowledged the toll it took on her family, but expressed gratitude for now having the time to be with them in her retirement.

One of the issues that particularly disappointed Colonel Thonyama was the prevalence of bribery in the force. She emphasized that SAPS officers are explicitly warned against accepting bribes, as it compromises the integrity of the entire service. She urged her fellow officers to uphold the values of honesty and accountability, noting that the SAPS has a strict anti-corruption strategy that all officers must sign.

In closing, Colonel Thonyama’s message to her colleagues was clear: success in law enforcement comes from maintaining integrity and serving the community with dignity and pride. She urged her peers to resist the temptation of corruption and to continue working towards a safer, more just society.

Her legacy is one of unwavering dedication, leadership, and a deep commitment to the people she served. Colonel Siphokazi Eleanor Thonyama’s retirement leaves behind an enduring impact on both the SAPS and the community of Lenasia.