History of BPS
140 Years of Dedicated Service
From the Bechuanaland Mounted Police to the modern Botswana Police Service, discover our journey of protecting and serving the nation with pride, integrity, and excellence.
Early Origins
Traditional Law Enforcement
Batswana have always maintained law and order in their communities from time immemorial. This practice commonly happened at a tribal level through regiments deployed by Chiefs to protect life and property. This early form of ensuring public safety can be regarded as the forerunner of policing in Botswana.
Traditional Responsibilities
- Protection of life and property
- Maintaining tribal order
- Community dispute resolution
Community Protection
Traditional Batswana law enforcement laid the foundation for modern policing principles
Historical Timeline
Key milestones in the development of the Botswana Police Service
Formation of Bechuanaland Mounted Police
Formal policing began with the formation of BMP by the British Government, comprising about 100 European men.
Bechuanaland Border Police Established
BBP was formed on 15th August, absorbing BMP to provide border security with headquarters in Mafikeng.
Formation of Bechuanaland Protectorate Police
Two police forces merged to become BPP, operating with divisions in Francistown and Gaberones.
Headquarters Relocated to Gaborone
The headquarters moved from Mafikeng to Gaborone as independence approached.
Renamed to Botswana Police Force
Following independence, the organization was renamed to reflect the new nation.
First Motswana Commissioner
Simon Adolf Hirschfeld became the first local Commissioner of Police. Women officers were first enrolled.
Modern Developments
Community Policing
Adopted in 2003, promoting partnerships and community engagement to address crime causes.
Professional Development
Continuous training and development programs ensuring high standards of service delivery.
Modern Technology
Integration of advanced technology and systems to enhance law enforcement capabilities.
Our Core Values
The values that guide our service to the nation
Botho
Humanness and respect for others
Excellence
Commitment to the highest standards
Integrity
Honesty and ethical conduct
Teamwork
Collaboration and unity
Former Commissioners
Leaders who shaped the history of BPS
Col. Sir Frederick C. Carrington
1885-1893
Good Adams
1893-1895
F.J. Newton
1895-1897
Good H. Adams
1898-1899
J.A. Walford
1899-1901
Ralph Champneys Williams
1901-1906
Lt. Col. Francis W. Panzera
1907-1916
Lt. Col. E.C.F. Garraway
1916-1917
Comyn James McGregor
1917-1923
Lt. Col. Jules Ellenberger
1923-1927
Rowland Mortimer Daniel
1928-1930
Lt. Col. Charles Fernand Rey
1930-1937
Lt. Col. Charles Noble Clarke
1937-1942
Aubrey D.F. Thompton
1942-1946
Anthony Sillery
1947-1949
Lt. Col. M.R.D. Lanley
1949-1955
Lt. Col. J.T.A. Bailey
1956-1971
Simon Adolf Hirschfeld
1971-1995
Norman Seduma Moleboge
1995-2004
Edwin Jenamiso Batshu
2004-2007
Thebeyame Edward Tsimako
2007-2012
Keabetswe Makgophe
2012-2023
Dinah Marathe
2024-Present
Our Legacy
Today, the Botswana Police Service stands as an organization of repute, characterized by a strong value system and commitment to excellence. With 140 years of dedicated service, we continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of our communities while maintaining our core mission of protecting and serving the people of Botswana.
The Voice of the Customer Leads Us
As we look to the future, we remain committed to our mission of providing professional, efficient, and community-focused policing services that ensure the safety and security of all citizens.