Nation mourns first Motswana Police Commissioner Hirschfeld
Pini Bothoko | Friday June 5, 2026 09:43
Hirschfeld, who served the police service for 39 years, passed on early this week. In a statement released late Wednesday, Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Moeti Mohwasa, expressed government's profound sadness following Hirschfeld's death.
He described him as a distinguished son of Botswana whose legacy will remain etched in the country's history.
'It is with deep sadness and a profound sense of national loss that I address you today on the passing of a distinguished son of Botswana, former Commissioner of the Botswana Police Service, Simon Adolf Hirschfeld,' Mohwasa said.
The minister extended heartfelt condolences to Hirschfeld's family, relatives, former colleagues in the BPS, and all those whose lives he touched through his dedicated service.
The departed former police chief joined the then Bechuanaland Protectorate Police on May 1, 1956, as a Constable and served for an impressive 39 years and three months before retiring on July 31, 1995, as BPS Commissioner.
His policing career spanned a critical period in Botswana's history, beginning during the colonial era and continuing through the country's transition to independence and nation-building.
A defining moment in his career came in 1971 when, at just 36 years old, he became the first Motswana to be appointed Commissioner of Police. The appointment marked a significant milestone in the localisation of leadership within Botswana's security sector following independence in 1966.
According to Mohwasa, the appointment represented more than a personal achievement, symbolising Botswana's transition towards citizen-led institutions founded on national values, professionalism, and service to the people.
For 24 years, from 1971 until his retirement in 1995, Hirschfeld led the BPS with distinction. During his tenure, the organisation expanded its operations, modernised its systems, and strengthened its capacity to maintain law and order throughout the country.
The Minister credited Hirschfeld for playing a pivotal role in transforming the police force into a more professional and nationally representative institution, laying a foundation that continues to guide the service today.
'His leadership opened doors for generations of Botswana Police officers who came after him. He stands amongst the pioneers of citizen leadership within our security services, and his legacy remains visible in the structures and traditions of the modern Botswana Police Service,' Mohwasa stated.
Throughout his distinguished career, Hirschfeld served at several police stations and departments, including Depot, Security, Francistown, Lobatse, Ramatlabama, and Police Headquarters. He steadily rose through the ranks, demonstrating professionalism, competence, and dedication at every stage of his service.
His outstanding contribution to policing earned him numerous honours and awards, among them the Botswana Police Medal for Meritorious Service, the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, the Distinguished Service Order, as well as Jubilee and Centenary commemorative medals.
Hirschfeld was also committed to professional development, undertaking specialised training both locally and internationally. His studies included training at the renowned Hendon Police Training School in England, as well as courses in radio operations, police administration, and investigative work.
Mohwasa said Hirschfeld would be remembered not only as a senior police officer but also as a pioneer who helped shape the identity and professionalism of Botswana's policing system.
'As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate a life that contributed significantly to the safety, stability, and development of our country. His story is part of the broader story of Botswana's journey from colonial administration to a sovereign nation built on professionalism and public service,' he added.
The government has once again extended its deepest condolences to Hirschfeld's family and loved ones, expressing hope that they will find comfort in knowing that his life left a lasting impact on the nation he served with distinction.