Leonard Gaoretelelwe Lekgetho has been appointed as the acting head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
Lekgetho takes the helm at SIU after Andy Mothibi was appointed as the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) last month.
Lekgetho worked as the chief operations officer of the SIU and has over 20 years of experience in forensic investigations.
The SIU welcomed Lekgetho’s appointment and described him as a leader whose entire career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of justice, integrity, and accountability.
“His appointment is one of continuity in the fight against corruption. It began on the front lines as a Special Investigator with the Directorate of Special Operations, also known as the Scorpions, where he honed his skills in investigating fraud, organised crime, and cybercrime offences,” said the SIU.
LEKGETHO’S EXPERIENCE
Lekgetho has held investigative and leadership roles within the SIU, including chief forensic investigator, assistant project manager, project manager, chief national investigations officer and chief operations officer.
He also served as a special investigator with the Directorate of Special Operations.
“Mr Lekgetho is not only a leader but a mentor who builds teams, nurtures talent, and inspires excellence. His appointment as acting head of the SIU is a testament to his integrity, resilience, and lifelong dedication to public service,” said the SIU in a statement.
Lekgetho has extended sincere congratulations to his predecessor Mothibi and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve under his leadership.
“Firstly, I want to congratulate Adv Mothibi most sincerely on his appointment as the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP). I also want to express my gratitude to him for the 10 years we have worked closely together.
“I am immensely grateful to have served under his leadership, as the SIU has transformed into a powerful entity for accountability, demonstrating impressive capabilities in intricate civil investigations, legal proceedings, and the recovery of public funds,” he said.
Lekgetho said Mothibi’s appointment as the NDPP will strengthen the SIU’s relationship with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
LEKGETHO PLEDGES TO STRENGTHEN THE FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION
He has pledged to lead the unit with strong principles, operational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to its mandate.
The SIU has also extended its best wishes to former Mothibi, stating that they look forward to his continued efforts to intensify the fight against corruption.
“As we welcome the new head of the SIU, we would like to wish the former Head of the SIU and now National Director of Public Prosecutions, Andy Mothibi, the best as he continues to intensify the fight against corruption and protect the interests of South Africans,” said the SIU.
