Lt Gen Jan Scheepers takes over as new Limpopo commissioner
The South African Police Service has appointed Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers as the new Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, effective from 1 August 2026.
The appointment was announced by Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, during a ceremony held at the Premier’s Office in Polokwane on Friday.
Dimpane was joined by Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and MEC for Transport and Community Safety Violet Mathye.
Scheepers, who becomes the province’s 10th police commissioner, brings nearly four decades of policing experience to the role. He takes over from the retired Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, whose term ended last month.
Speaking after his appointment, Scheepers vowed to restore public trust in policing and ensure that police stations become safe, accessible spaces for communities seeking help and support.
He also committed to tackling corruption within police ranks and strengthening collaboration with communities in the fight against crime.
“We are going to change this province, but we are not going to do it alone. Active community participation must take place. The days where the police plan in isolation without consulting communities end now. Communities must be part of us, we must listen to their concerns. They also need to see boots on the ground,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dimpane highlighted Limpopo’s strategic position as a key gateway province, saying it requires a leader with experience, credibility, operational competence and moral authority.
She noted that the province’s extensive borders and major transport corridors create economic opportunities, but also expose it to serious crime threats such as illegal immigration, transnational organised crime, vehicle trafficking and cross-border syndicates.
“These realities require a provincial commissioner who understands both community policing and sophisticated operational policing, a leader who can integrate intelligence, technology, specialised capabilities and community partnerships into a single crime-fighting strategy. I am confident we have appointed exactly such a leader,” she said.
Dimpane also expressed appreciation to Hadebe for her service, describing her tenure as one marked by discipline, operational consistency, compassion and accountability.
“She has undoubtedly raised the standard of policing in Limpopo,” Dimpane added.
Premier Ramathuba reaffirmed the provincial government’s support for Scheepers, saying authorities will provide the necessary resources, political will and structural backing to ensure effective policing in the province.
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