The EMPD has appointed a chief superintendent at its Media and Public Relations Unit.
The long-overdue spokesperson’s post at the EMPD, under the Chief of Staff office, was eventually filled at the beginning of June when a superintendent was promoted.
Chief of police Jabulani Isaac Mapiyeye made an official announcement on June 8 at a hand-over event in Bedfordview.
Chief Supt Kelebogile “Lebo” Thepa, a mother of one and a dedicated public servant in her late 30s, joined the EMPD in 2009 and made her way through the ranks while busy with law studies at a well-known and renowned national university.
Armed with an LLB (law degree), the humble and devoted newly appointed spokesperson started as a constable, working as a precinct officer in the Thembisa area.
She then joined the Freeway Unit, the EMPD Training Academy and was later promoted to an inspector position.
In 2019, she was promoted to superintendent, where she led the EMPD VIP Protection Unit until May.
“We are thrilled that finally a chief superintendent with such a rich knowledge is occupying the spokesperson’s position. Her experience in this crucial position will come in handy in her responsibilities to contribute in making the organisation function professionally and effectively,” Mapiyeye said.
“Over and above, we believe that in the process of discharging her managerial duties, she will transfer her skills acquired over years to willing officers within the department.”
Thepa is the first woman to be appointed as a spokesperson since the inception of the EMPD in 2002.
