| Farewell to a trailblazer: Lieutenant Colonel Masuvhelele Takalani Selinah retires after 36 years of service | |
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| Date Published: | 2025/07/31 |
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Media Statement
At age 60, she leaves behind a powerful legacy, one that will continue to inspire generations of law enforcement professionals. Her adventure started in Sibasa on March 1, 1989, when there were not many women in the Venda police uniform. A kind female officer in her village served as an inspiration to young Selinah, who discovered her purpose. She felt a spark ignite in her that was fueled by self-control, bravery, and a strong feeling of service. From day one, she stood out as a beacon of calm strength and fierce determination. Over the decades, she served at several police stations across the country, including Vuwani, Rust De Winter, and Polokwane in the Community Service Centre, reporting crimes, attending to complainants, dispatch police resources to respond to these calls, including 10111 emergency calls and the smooth running of CSC. Her steady rise through the ranks is a testament to her dedication and work ethics. 1 July 1996– Promoted to Sergeant, Vuwani Police Station 1 July 1999– Promoted to Inspector Vuwani Police Station 1 April 2010 – Promoted to Warrant Officer Vuwani Police Station 1 April 2011– Promoted to Lieutenant Vuwani Police Station 2 April 2012– Transferred to Rust De Winter Police Station 6 May 2013 – Transferred to Polokwane Police Station 2015 – Transferred to Provincial Management Intervention (now Inspectorate) 1 November 2022– Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel at Inspectorate, providing in-service training to members and conducting inspections of registers. Throughout her service, she remained a lifelong learner. Her academic achievements include: A Higher Certificate in Policing from Technikon SA (01 December 1997), National Diploma in Policing from Unisa (09 June 2006) and Baccalaureus Technologiae (BTech) in Policing from Unisa awarded on 10 June 2011. Whether responding to emergency calls, conducting inspections, or volunteering in youth programs, Lieutenant Colonel Masuvhelele led by example. Her discipline, respect for others, and steadfast commitment to excellence became the foundation of the advice to future officers: “Always be disciplined, be respectful, and do your work to the best of your ability.”said Lieutenant Colonel Masuvhelele. Her service earned her numerous commendations, but if you ask her what she’s most proud of, she won’t mention medals or ranks. Instead, she’ll speak of the relationships with fellow officers, community members, and the young people she mentored—those she helped steer toward brighter paths. Now stepping into retirement, a mother of five looks forward to spending more time with her family, especially her three grandchildren, and exploring the beauty of South Africa. But her journey of service isn’t ending; she remains committed to supporting community programs and mentoring youth. "Lieutenant Colonel Masuvhelele, thank you for your courage, compassion, and decades of devoted service. You wore your badge with pride and your legacy will live on forever. We wish you a joyful, peaceful, and well-deserved retirement,” stated General Thembi Hadebe. Ends
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