I’m not back for revenge: Masemola

National Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, says he is not returning to the South African Police Service (SAPS) to seek revenge.

He says his return is an opportunity to reflect on the values that must guide leadership, particularly when circumstances test resolve, convictions, and faith in institutions.

Masemola resumed his full duties on Monday after President Cyril Ramaphosa lifted his suspension last week.

The country’s top cop returns to office after the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) withdrew charges against him relating to alleged contraventions of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) in connection with a R360-million SAPS tender awarded to alleged underworld figure, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s, Medicare24 franchise.

The charges stemmed from allegations that Masemola failed to properly oversee the tender procurement process.

National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Andy Mothibi, concluded that the case against Masemola lacked reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution.

Masemola says the challenges facing the police service require a collective commitment, stressing that they cannot be resolved by the commissioner alone.

The commissioner emphasised that a strong police service cannot be built on division, mistrust or personal interests.

“Unity does not mean the absence of differences. It means resolving those differences constructively, respecting institutional processes and placing the interests of the organisation and the people we serve above personal considerations. I expect every member of the senior management to demonstrate maturity, discipline and collective responsibility,” he said.

Masemola says his top priority as he returns to office is ensuring that SAPS is operationally prepared for the upcoming local government elections.

He has also condemned the recent killings involving political party members in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.

“I will receive a comprehensive briefing from Crime Intelligence on these incidents, including threat assessments and measures required to strengthen prevention and investigations.  We will act decisively against political violence, intimidation and unlawful conduct. The SAPS will remain impartial: no political affiliation places anyone above the law, and every person must be able to participate in democratic processes without fear,” he said.

Masemola has also urged political parties, their members and supporters to exercise tolerance, respect opposing views and resolve differences peacefully.

“Elections are a cornerstone of our democracy, and protecting that democratic space is a responsibility we share.”

#sapsHQ [GENERAL FANNIE MASEMOLA MEETS SENIOR MANAGEMENT ON FIRST DAY BACK AT WORK]

The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Masemola reaffirmed his commitment to building a professional, disciplined, ethical and responsive police service. He called on SAPS members, communities, businesses, civil society, government and security partners to work together in fighting crime and rebuilding public trust.

“To every member of the SAPS, the task before us is to unite our organisation, strengthen frontline capacity, confront crime decisively and rebuild public confidence through consistent action.

May God bless the South African Police Service and the people of our country.” – General Fannie Masemola.

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NP

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) October 19, 2026