Biography
Mangwashi Victoria Phiyega SOEG (born 29 May 1958), widely known as Riah Phiyega, is a prominent South African police officer.
She made history as the first woman to hold the role. National Police Commissioner of the South African Police ServiceShe was appointed to this important position on 12 June 2012, under President Jacob Zuma.
Riah Phiyega served as national commissioner from 2015 to 2017, marking a breakthrough as she was the first woman to hold this prestigious position in the South African Police Service.
However, her tenure has been marred by controversy. Riah Phiyega faced criticism for her handling of the 2012 Marikana massacre, in which 34 miners lost their lives. She was also criticised for her handling of the 2015 taxi riots in Cape Town.
Former National Commissioner of the South African Police Service
Riah Phiyega |
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 Riah Phiyega: History ‧ Bio ‧ Photos |
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| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| Full name: | Mangwashi Victoria Phiyega |
| Stage name: | Riah Phiyega |
| Born: | May 29, 1958 (age 66) |
| Place of birth: | Polokwane, South Africa |
| Nationality: | South Africa |
| Education: | University of Limpopo, University of South Africa, University of Johannesburg |
| Height: | 1.61 meters |
| Parents: | Rebecca Moloisi, GJ Moloisi |
| Siblings: | Matilda Moloisi, Abigail Moloisi |
| Couple: | Elias Phiyega |
| Boyfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
| The children: | 3 |
| Job: | Police |
| Net worth: | $400,000 – $1 million (USD) |
Early life and education
Born on 29 May 1958 in Leolo, Limpopo, South Africa, Riah Phiyega comes from a small community. Her educational journey began with regular train rides from her Polokwane home to Johannesburg. Despite her humble beginnings, the young girl was determined to pursue her studies at Leolo High Schoollaid the foundation for her future achievements.
Raised with two older sisters, Matilda Moloisi and Abigail Moloisi, Riah Phiyega was born to Rebecca Moloisi and GJ Moloisi. She furthered her studies at North Universitynow known as University of LimpopoBachelor of Social Work
Complementing this, Riah Phiyega holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Social Sciences from University of South Africa and a Master of Social Sciences degree from University of Johannesburg.
Career
Riah Phiyega began her career in the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 1980, as a constable. Over the years, she rose through the ranks and achieved the rank of Lieutenant General in 2010. Her journey in the SAPS included serving as Deputy National Commissioner for Human Resources and Training, marking a significant turning point before she was eventually appointed National Commissioner.
Her career path extends beyond law enforcement, as she played a key role in the restructuring of Portnet, an organisation she joined after the SAPS. As a member of the senior management team, Riah Phiyega was instrumental in the division of Portnet into two independent entities: Port Operations and the Port Authority. She later joined the executive team of the South African National Ports Authority.
In addition to her law enforcement and port-related roles, Riah Phiyega has held various leadership positions. She served as chairperson of Production House (1998–1999), board member of Connex Travel (1997–2000), trustee of the Satchwell Road Accident Fund Board (2000–2002), board member for the South Africa 2010 World Cup bid (2002–2010), and chairperson of the Presidential State Review Commission (2010–2012).
Appointed as national police commissioner in 2012 by President Jacob Zuma, Riah Phiyega succeeded Bheki Cele. However, her tenure was marred by challenges, notably a suspension following the 2012 Marikana massacre, where protesting miners lost their lives. Although she did not face corruption charges, she was removed from her post in 2015, marking the end of her tenure as national commissioner.
Awards & Nominations
- South African Police 10th Anniversary Medal
- South African Police World Cup Support Award 2010
Social media
- Instagram name: RIAH (@riahthegirl)
Personal life
Riah Phiyega, a 66-year-old police officer, is married to Elias Phiyega and together they have raised a family of three children.
With a marriage spanning over 25 years, Riah and Elias Phiyega have built a life together and embraced the joys of parenthood, expanding their legacy to include three children. In addition to being a parent, Riah Phiyega also takes pride in her role as a grandmother.
Net worth
Riah Phiyega’s net worth is estimated to be between $400,000 and $1 million. Despite his successful career in law enforcement, Phiyega has faced controversy and criticism during his time as National Police Commissioner.
