| 2025/03/08 |
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Media Statement
POLOKWANE – Colonel David Malisa, a highly seasoned and decorated police officer, is making significant strides as the Commander of Operation Vala Umgodi Tactical Joint Operational Centre (TACJOC) in Limpopo. Assuming his leadership role on 1st December 2024, Colonel Malisa brings an extensive operational and detective background to the task team, which is dedicated to combating illegal mining and other criminal activities in the province. Colonel Malisa’s policing journey began in 1992 when he joined the former Lebowa Police at Altona. From the onset, his exceptional skills in discipline and leadership were recognized, leading to his appointment as the best platoon leader. His performance during training earned him a position as a drill and weapon skill instructor at the Police Academy, where he quickly advanced to become a shooting range officer at Maleoskop Training Development. His ascent through the ranks was swift, driven by his commitment to law enforcement and public safety. By 1995, he was promoted to Lance-Sergeant and later, in 1996, to Sergeant. His expertise in training and operations led him to the National Head Office in Pretoria, where he played a key role in training initiatives. In 1998, he contributed to the establishment of the Counter-Subcomponent unit in Badfontein during the police amalgamation. Between 2000 and 2012, Colonel Malisa served at multiple police stations, including Lydenburg, Nelspruit and Pienaar in Mpumalanga. In Pienaar, he served as the Operation Commander of Tactical Response Team ( TRT) when it was formally established and later a trainer in weapon phase both rural and urban. During this period, he transitioned from uniformed duties to Detective Services, where he excelled in investigations and earned a reputation as a top detective in Phalaborwa, Limpopo at the rank of a Captain and appointed second in command. His passion for frontline policing and outstanding commanship saw him requested to head the Tactical Response Team (TRT) in Polokwane in 2014. Again his leadership skills and operational prowess propelled him to the rank of Major in 2015, where he became an integral part of the unit’s management team. In 2016, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and played a crucial role in the Provincial Emergency Services (PES) management. Colonel Malisa became part of the management team when the Flying Squad Unit was established in Limpopo in 2017, a specialized unit that significantly contributed to crime-fighting successes in the province. By 2022, he had been appointed the Commander of the 10111 Emergency Response Centre, while also managing the Flying Squad Unit, Motor Bike Unit and Accident Response Unit. In 2023, he achieved the rank of Colonel, demonstrating exceptional leadership by heading multiple units as a Rapid Response Services Provincial Commander. His strategic expertise and commitment to public safety led to his appointment as the Commander of Operation Vala Umgodi in December 2024. Under his leadership, Operation Vala Umgodi has achieved remarkable results in the fight against illegal mining and other related crime. Over a thousand of arrests have been made under his command, and his unwavering discipline has kept the operation focused and effective. His leadership has not only ensured law enforcement success but also inspired and motivated his team at TACJOC. Beyond policing, Colonel Malisa has demonstrated a deep sense of community engagement. He led a social outreach initiative in one of the areas affected by illegal mining, where officers from their own pockets donated school uniforms and sanitary towels to disadvantaged learners. Colonel Malisa is an advocate for continuous learning and professional development. He holds a Baccalaureus Technologiae, a National Diploma in Policing, and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). He has also completed several advanced training courses, including crowd management, tactical policing, advanced driving, and disciplinary hearing management. Despite his demanding career, Colonel Malisa remains devoted to his family, his wife and four children—whom he describes as his pillar of strength. He believes that protecting his family fuels his passion for safeguarding the people of Limpopo. As Colonel David Malisa continues to lead Operation Vala Umgodi, his track record of discipline, resilience, and dedication sets a high standard for law enforcement in South Africa. His leadership is not only making a difference in crime prevention but also strengthening the relationship between the police and the community. The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi and the management acknowledge and salute the phenomenal work of Colonel David Malisa. Ends
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