Nongqai Vol 17 No 5A
Keywords
Brigadier Chris Thaver, leadership, dedication, service, resilience, South African Police/ South African Police Service, policing, discipline, professionalism, Border duty, management, perseverance, achievement, Family values, mentorship, integrity, commitment, South Africa, transformation, heritage, experience, legacy
Abstract
This autobiography tells the inspiring life story of Brigadier Chris Thaver, who served with honour and dedication in the police service. It describes his early struggles, career growth, and the challenges he faced during difficult times in South Africa. Through hard work, discipline, and determination, he achieved many historic milestones in the police service. His story also highlights the importance of family support, mentorship, and strong personal values.
This memoir preserves an important part of policing history and offers valuable lessons for future generations.
SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE
A BORDER VETERAN AND THE LONG ROAD TO LEADERSHIP
BRIGADIER KRISHNA (CHRIS) THAVER
F O R E W O R D
Major General Oswald D Reddy
I am honoured and count it a privilege to write these words of introduction to the story of Brigadier Krishna Thaver.
The reason I am highly honoured is that Brigadier Thaver knows me since I was born. My late dad Louis Reddy and Brigadier Thaver became good friends in 1963 when he was 17 years old, and the year I was born. Our families remained close friends over the years, we went to the Reformed Church in Merebank, and he became known to me as “Krish Uncle,” since I was a child.
Whilst I was in primary school, I saw Brigadier Thaver (I think he was a sergeant at the time) in uniform for the first time. We were always afraid of the police, and I recall standing looking at him in a state of shock because I did not know he was a police officer.
This was the day my perception about the police changed because I knew him to be a wonderful, kind, caring, loving, very jovial person. I don’t think he will recall this, but I stood there admiring him in his uniform which fitted like a glove, was clean, ironed and I could see my reflection in his shoes which were shining like glass. My thought was one day when I grow up, I would like to be a policeman like him.
In 1981 when I completed matric, I called him for advice on enlisting in the police. He informed me that he had joined the police without a matric certificate and had the opportunity to study, obtain his matric, and study further for promotions. He also spoke about the additional perks and benefits. I enlisted in August 1982 with him as my reference and strived to follow in his footsteps. He monitored my career and always called to congratulate me when I was promoted. He was the first to tell me that he was proud of my achievements and he has remained a mentor to me to this date.
When I reflect on Brigadier Thaver’s life and 31-year illustrious career in the police, what stands out most to me is not his rank, his titles, or the many “firsts” he achieved, important though those are, but the man himself. Quietly determined, deeply principled, and unwavering in his sense of duty to the police and the people of South Africa, he never sought attention or favour. He simply got on with the work, even when the odds were stacked firmly against him.
The levels of poverty and his personal circumstances caused Brigadier Thaver to join the South African Police in 1969, at a time when opportunity was limited, the environment unforgiving, and recognition far from guaranteed. Yet he carried himself with dignity from the outset. As a fellow police office, I am fully aware that he had to navigate a system that was often unfair, endure disappointments that would have broken lesser men, and yet he remained loyal to the ideals of discipline, improved service delivery to the people, and professionalism. He earned respect not because of policy or transformation, but because of his exemplary conduct and character, he led by example.
What this memoir captures beautifully is his honesty in that he does not pretend that the past was perfect, nor does he dismiss it entirely. He speaks openly about discrimination, frustration, and loss, but also about mentorship, camaraderie, opportunities, and leadership that transcended race and politics. He chose fairness, courage, and integrity even when doing so was inconvenient.
On a personal level, I have always admired Brigadier Thaver’s humility. Despite reaching the rank of Brigadier and holding positions of significant responsibility, he remained approachable, grounded, and deeply respectful of others. He never forgot where he came from, nor did he ever forget the people who stood beside him, his colleagues, his friends, and above all, his late wife Lizzy, children, grandchildren and family. Behind the uniform was a God-fearing man, a devoted husband and father, whose career was sustained by love, sacrifice, and unwavering support at home.
Considering the current trust deficit and negative perceptions about the police in South Africa, due to corruption and criminality, this foreword is more than a record of one man’s service. It is a testament to a generation of police officers who carried the Service through its most turbulent years. It is also a reminder to those who serve today that integrity, discipline, and professionalism are timeless values, worth protecting and passing on to every generation.
I am grateful to Brigadier Thaver for documenting and sharing his police career history and life story. In doing so, he is preserving a piece of our policing heritage and is giving future generations something rare and valuable, the truth, about a generation of officers and gentlemen and women who have served the people of South Africa with dignity and pride.
Now at the age of 80 years old, Brigadier Thaver remains a role-model for many of us who serve and/or have served in the police. May these pages stand as a lasting acknowledgement of a life well lived and a career honourably served.
With much love, gratitude and respect
Oswald D Reddy
Major General (Retired)
Western Cape Police Ombudsman
“Agnoscere et honorare servientibus.”
To acknowledge and honour those who served.
AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY BY BRIGADIER CHRIS THAVER. EDITED AND SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION BY LOGAN GOVENDER [LG].
Logan Govender [LG]
Insert by Logan Govender
“The Nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten” – Calvin Coolidge
This memoir is a reflection on a life shaped by duty, perseverance, dedication and devotion.
The early years were a period of trial and testing for Brigadier Chris Thaver. He faced language barriers, limited opportunities, and the challenges of living in a deeply divided society. But through determination, and with the help of mentors and colleagues, he slowly found his place and purpose in the South African Police.
Even at a young age, he showed strength and resilience. He became an overcomer and a conqueror. As it says in Romans 8:37, “we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.”
At the time, the young Chris likely did not realise it, but God was preparing and setting him apart for a greater purpose. His life was being shaped for something meaningful; a calling to serve God with dedication and faith.
This account is not only about his personal journey, but also about the people who influenced and shaped his illustrious career. He was fortunate to work alongside dedicated officers of integrity who believed in fairness, professionalism, and service to the community, even during difficult times. Their guidance helped him grow from a young constable into a senior officer.
Colonel Johnny Govender and Brigadier Thaver were close friends from their posting to Vereeniging till this very day. I was introduced to Thaver only in the 1980’s.
During mid 90’s I was transferred to Plessislaer as a Lieutenant. Plessislaer was situated in a black township in the Western suburbs of Pietermaritzburg. The townships consisted of Edendale, Imbali, Sutherlands, Ashdown, Elandskop but to name a few and had an extremely large population.
The station lacked many essential lifesaving resources such as manpower, personal firearms essential furniture, an effective telecommunication system, etc
I chatted with my confidant and mentor, Captain Johnny Govender about it and he advised that I should contact Captain Chris Thaver his personal friend and discuss my station commander’s conservativeness in wanting to make changes for the better.
After Captain Thaver’s intervention and recommendations we had a modern telecommunication system and an equally modernised photocopier and telefax machine installed as approved by Captain Thaver from the Efficiency Services as it was called in the day. These improvements increased productivity and generally expedited our daily work.
After our retirement Brigadier Thaver and I grew closer as I attended their Retired Officer’s Social Club in Durban.
In my dealing with him whilst serving and after retirement I found him to be an astute Officer and a Gentlemen. He is a very knowledgeable Officer with an abundance of wisdom. The FIRST Indian to be appointed a District Clerk during the 1970’s and later the FIRST Indian appointed at Efficiency Services and before his retirement the FIRST Indian Provincial Head of Management Services in KwaZulu Natal. This reminds me of the scripture in the Holy Bible “… and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. Matthew 23:12 (KJV).
Brigadier Thaver is considered integrous and still remains one of the most respected and astute officers in the country and within his community.
His kindness and treatment of everyone equally has said much of him.
I thank you, Sir and Salute you for your contributions your personal achievements.
“Each day, millions of police officers do the selfless work of putting their lives on the line to protect civilians, frequently responding to or preventing crises completely with no recognition.” – Letitia James
[LG]
SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE
A BORDER VETERAN AND THE LONG ROAD TO LEADERSHIP
BRIGADIER KRISHNA (CHRIS) THAVER
Lieutenant Chris Thaver, after his Graduation and Passing Out Parade in 1985 as a Commissioned Officer
Early Life
I was born on 31st August 1946. My parents were Freddy and Sabbamah Thaver who lived in Clairwood, Durban at that time. My father worked for most of his working life in the Pathological Laboratory at Wentworth hospital. He also served at King Edward, Clairwood and Addington Hospitals for a few years. When I left school, we lived in Merebank. Due to our poverty (my father earned a pittance) and the fact that there were eight children (4 boys and 4 girls), me being the eldest son. I left school at the age of 16 to supplement the income of our household.
After working in 4 different places for short periods (moving on for more salary and better prospects, as my first salary was a mere R4.10 a week).
Photograph taken in Chris’s youth, aged 16 years old in the CBD, Durban
Enlistment into the South African Police
I joined the South African Police on 10 January 1969. The salary was poor at R48,00 per month but I was thinking of the long term and a future career.
As a recruit I was posted to Vereeniging. I didn’t even know where the place was located and neither did, I speak any Afrikaans. Everyone in Vereeniging spoke Afrikaans! So, life in the SAP started off difficult. This is the place where I first met my dear friend Colonel Shunmugam (Johnny) Govender of Pietermaritzburg.
Photograph taken in Vereeniging during 1969
L-R, Chris Thaver; Danny; Johnny Govender; Dennis Moodley
Colonel Shunmugam (Johnny) Govender
He arrived about 2 months later. His parents brought him and I remembered his father telling me to “look after him”. I promised to do so as he was 4 years younger than me. However, that same afternoon Johnny and I were involved in an altercation with some unsavoury characters. We used sjamboks and batons to deal with the problem. This incident happened in the presence of Johnny’s father!! I wonder what he thought of his son’s safety when he left for home to Pietermaritzburg. I became very close friends with Johnny’s parents and immediate family over the years and they treated me as an elder son and brother.
SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE
TRAINING COLLEGE
WENTWORTH, DURBAN
TROOP 13
NOVEMBER 1969 – APRIL 1970
Members Identified
Second row, L-R, 7th Hariram, (Brigadier Hari Badul); 10th Chaitoo
Third row, L-R, 3rd Shunmugam, (Colonel Johnny Govender); 5th BD Naidoo, (Sergeant Brain Naidoo); 10th Rajoo, (Troop Leader), (Captain Tiger Rajoo Ellappan);
Fourth row, L-R, 3rd Krishna, (Brigadier Chris Thaver); 5th VN Pillay, (Warrant Officer Lucy Pillay); 9th SR Naidu
After attending police college in the later part of 1969, we returned to Vereeniging as Constables in April 1970. We were in troop 13 where the troop leader was Rajoo (Tiger) Ellapen who later became an instructor at the college and was a famous wrestler. He retired as a Captain. A few others in my troop were Brigadier H Badul, Warrant Officer Chaitoo and VN (Lucy) Pillay.
Life was very difficult in Vereeniging. Besides the language barrier, there was no proper housing for Indian policeman. The salary was paltry (R48,00 per month).
At the time, there was no official accommodation for Indian or non-white members, compelling us to find lodging in Top Location, a historically significant area where Indian and African communities lived side by side in relative harmony.
In 1970, Govender and I became part of the first group of Indian policemen posted to Vereeniging. Our responsibilities included the foot beat, inspection of vacant premises, and general crime prevention duties on foot or pedal cycle.
Marriage
I married the love of my life “LIZZY” on the 28th of June 1970.
This photograph was taken after our Passing Out Parade at the Chatsworth Sports Ground, Unit 3 in April 1970, 2 months before I married Lizzy
L-R, Manikum Nagar; Lizzy Mundie; Chris Thaver and Johnny Govender
Photograph taken at my home in Reservoir Hills circa 1980’s
L-R, Lizzy and Chris
SA Police, Cato Manor
From June 1972 I was stationed at SAP Cato Manor.
Whilst based at Cato Manor I volunteered for Counter Insurgency Training (COIN) at Maleoskop and was posted to Plumtree, Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) for my stint of border duty in 1973.
Chris Thaver after his stint on the border in Plumtree, Rhodesia on arrival home. Note the length of his hair. No hairdressing facilities available at the border posts
After my return I wrote the police internal promotion examination and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in April 1974. By this time, I was the father of 2 daughters (Lucy and Janet).
District Headquarters Durban West
In June 1975 I was transferred to District Headquarters, Durban West. This transfer can be “blamed” on the late Captain Saravana Govender.
Captain Saravana M Govender
He was, at the time, a Sergeant based at DHQ Durban West. I often went there to hand in and collect post etc and he often commended me on my good posture and neatness of dress (he was a stickler for such things as many young policemen who trained under him would affirm). He wanted to be transferred to the SA Police, Training College, Wentworth, Durban as an instructor and was told to get a suitable replacement. So, he “got” me! Out of the blue and to my complete surprise, I was informed by my Station Commander to report to DHQ (District Headquarters, Durban West) the next morning. I reported there at 07:15, met with Sergeant Saravana, spoke with him but he didn’t tell me the reason even then. At 08:00, I was called to Lt. Benadie’s (later Brigadier) office and came to know the reason. I was very reluctant to but had no choice but to obey. My main problem was working amongst so many Officers, the highest of whom was a Colonel (Jordaan), a Lieutenant Colonel, 2 Majors, a Captain and 2 Lieutenants. This not including a Lieutenant Colonel, a Major and 2 Captains in the Detective section. At the station level, we hardly ever saw an Officer. If we saw a Lieutenant visiting the station at night, it was something to talk about. At DHQ I saw an Officer at every turn.
I didn’t like it at all. Nobody bothered me when I worked in the charge office or drove the patrol van. Now I was apprehensive and uneasy. After showing me the “ropes” for about 2 weeks, Sgt. Saravana was transferred to the College. Two other Indians viz. Sgt. Pandaram and Cst. Devraj worked in the stores, so I was not entirely alone during lunch breaks and the odd get togethers in between.
After a period, when the White person in charge of me in the Registry left, I was put in charge and brought in 2 Indian Constables to work there.
In hindsight, I owe much of my success in the South African Police to Sgt. Saravana because of his manipulation in getting me to be transferred into his job. My wild days of shift work was over. A steady 7am to 4pm job with only 2 Saturday (1/2 days) per month gave me the opportunity to study and attend evening classes at ML Sultan. I didn’t have a Matric Certificate when I joined and only obtained same by studying part time.
In the later years, Sgt Saravana, who was a Warrant Officer at this time was transferred out of the Training College and back to Durban West district. He retired at SAP Sydenham. He was a dedicated and loyal policeman. He was highly respected by the community of Clare Estate, Sydenham, Springtown, Asherville and Puntan’s Hill. I can’t think of any person who would have a bad comment about him, except the riffraff and unsavoury people. I often would tell many policemen that the world would be a better place if there were more policemen like Warrant Officer Saravana. He shall always be remembered by myself and his impeccable character traits (May His Soul Rest in Peace).
My third and last child (son Donovan) was born in July 1977. In April 1980 I was promoted to the rank of Warrant Officer after passing the Internal Police exams. At that time, I would estimate that there were not more than 10 Indians who held the rank of Warrant Officer. I still worked at DHQ Durban West. For approximately 2 years I was District Clerk (1983 – 1985) and was the first Indian to be in that position during the apartheid era.
I thereafter wrote my National Diploma exams and passed. This made me eligible to go on Officer’s Course in 1984 and to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. However, the Department insisted that I write the National Higher Certificate. The Higher Certificate is required to hold the rank of Warrant Officer. But I was already a Warrant Officer when I wrote the Internal Police exams in 1980. This left me baffled as to the reason why I should write another exam. I didn’t get a “free promotion” to Warrant Officer! All efforts to convince HQ failed so I felt “robbed” of attending the Officers Course in 1984. The course that Johnny and other notable officers attended.
In 1985 I wrote the Higher Certificate Exams, much to my frustration and disappointment of writing the Warrant Officers exams twice. If this wasn’t discrimination, then i don’t know what is!
Candidate Officer’s Course
I attended the Candidate Officer’s Course in Benoni from September to December 1985, was promoted to Lieutenant and posted back to DHQ Durban West.
SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE
CANDIDATE OFFICER’S COURSE
NO 7/1985
1985-09-25 TILL 1985-12-06
Rear row, L-R, 4th K Thaver
My return to District Headquarters Durban West as a commissioned officer
On my first day at work, the District Commandant Colonel TE Botha, told me in the presence of all other officers (Whites) that he had insisted on my return to Durban West HQ although some senior officers didn’t think it was a good idea. So, I ended up being the first Indian Officer in the South African police to serve at District HQ level. Colonel TE Botha was one of the best commanders that I served under. He disregarded “race/colour” and treated every person as equal. The other Officers followed suit, and I was treated as “one of them”. I must mention that Colonel Billy Fisher became a great friend and colleague to me.
I hasten to add that many of the District Commanders (Brigadier Nel, Brigadier Laas and Colonel TE Botha) of the DHQ were very good commanders and had exceptional knowledge of police work. I learnt from the very best. There were many junior Officers based at our stations who went on to make a name for themselves and distinguished themselves in their fields.
Passing Out Parade, Kings Park, Durban, 1987
L-R, Lieutenant Chris Thaver; Constable M Govender, Lieutenant-Colonel; my Son-in-law married to my eldest daughter Captain Lucy Govender
District Headquarters Chatsworth
I also worked under an Indian District Commandant, Major DS Maharaj, who was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and later appointed the Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng. He was excellent in command and control and was never afraid to make difficult decisions. The other officers in this first “Indian” District office who were also very good at their work, were Lieutenant-Colonel Mathura (Ray) Munilal as Detective Head and Colonel Rungasamy (Dickey) Munsamy – senior staff officer. I can state without a shadow of doubt that the Officers of the Chatsworth District were very knowledgeable and went on to higher ranks. To name a few: Lt. General Perumal Naidoo, Maj. Generals Jisook and Ramsaroop.
Original staff, minus Colonel Rungasamy and one Warrant Officer
L-R, 3rd Lieutenant Chris Thaver; Lieutenant-Colonel DS Maharaj; Lieutenant-Colonel Munilal Mathura
In 1988 I was transferred the new Chatsworth District HQ to help set up from scratch. Within 6 months we (Maharaj, Mathura, Rungasamy and myself) were invited to a function by the Provincial Commissioner together with an entourage of his senior Officers and was told that the new District was an outstanding success and that we were the best District in the Province.
Efficiency (Management) Services
In 1990 I was approached by Major Freddy Smith who requested me to join Efficiency Services (later known as Management Services). I never knew that this department existed. I was reluctant to join but after much consideration and thinking about my career path, I agreed to join. Again, I achieved a milestone of becoming the first Indian in the country to join Management Services.
I then was sent to Technikon Pretoria and was awarded a Certificate in Organisation and Work study (first Indian to achieve this as well). In 1991 I was promoted to the rank of Captain and appointed as Head: Organisation & Work study under Management Services in KZN.
I was humbled to see my name appear on the Provincial Organigram of senior Officers. The appointments on the organigram were signed and approved by the Provincial Commissioner, General Steyn and Deputy National Commissioner. I was the only Indian on the organigram and this was in the time of apartheid. The white officers working under my command had no issues whatsoever. So, one can see that in certain sections within the police, change was taking place even under difficult circumstances. People like George Fivaz, General Steyn, Colonel TE Botha and Major Freddy Smith saw no colour. There were many more like them, bless their souls. I saw white officers and non-commissioned officers like this as far back as the 70’s and 80’s.
Lieutenant Thaver receiving a service medal from
Lieutenant General M Van Eyk, Brigadier JJ Beeslaar in the background and extreme right Brigadier Aaron R Harry at Kings Park Stadium circa 1987/9
After rapid promotions to Major and Lieutenant-Colonel I was promoted to full Colonel in April 1994. At the time of the first democratic elections on 27 April 1994 I worked with Brigadier DS Maharaj (later Lieutenant General) monitoring the elections at all polling stations in southern KZN. It was quite an experience at some polling stations because of the glaring political tensions between the ANC and IFP. We had first hand experience of the miracle of the transition.
Port Edward Holiday Resort
Sometime towards the end of 1994, I telephoned the Port Edward Holiday Resort to try to get a booking for a holiday with my family. I was disappointed to be told that they had no vacancy and told a colleague (a white Captain) about this. He immediately called the resort and pretended to want a booking for himself and was told that there was availability. He took up the issue of why I was refused. Excuses were made of bookings being cancelled etc. I, of course, made a big issue of this blatant act of racism (not very long after the ground-breaking election of April 1994).
The matter was escalated to Head Office. I was called in by Major General Chetty (who was at Province KZN at the time) for a meeting where I accepted the apologies of manager of the resort. Ironically, a year later I was elected to the Board of the Holiday Resort under the chairmanship of Major General JC Naude. This made me the first person of colour to serve on the board. I was treated as an equal and with respect by other members of the board as well as the staff. I voluntarily resigned from the board upon my retirement in 2000. Major General Bala Naidoo replaced me.
Board of Directors, Port Edward Holiday Resort 1995 – 2000
Front row, seated, L-R, 2nd Major General Eksteen; 3rd Major General JC Naude;
Rear row, Standing, L-R, 4th Brigadier Chris Thaver
“Triecia Naude – Facebook
I can add some names Front Row from L-R Mr Calitz (Architect), skip1, Genl Naudé, Genl Herklaas Meyer, Adv R Brandt. Back Row from L-R Skip 1, Mr Bezuidenhout (Auditor), Mr B du Preez (Secretary), and then the last two were Mr S Pienaar (2IC) and then Mr Gys van Zyl (Resort Manager) If my memory serves me right.”
Changes in the SA Police
Whilst political negotiations were taking place (CODESA) and for a few years after, the police were busy changing already, I attended many meetings in Pretoria concerning changes. I did not agree to many of these changes. In an interview with a newspaper upon my promotion to Head of Management Services in KZN, I voiced this opinion. I’ll quote what I expressed in that interview “Change must be positive, not moving backwards. Not everything was bad in the past. What we tend to do is throw out a lot of good with the bad”. The newspaper writes: Here he points out to discipline as one of the biggest factors. “It’s at a different level altogether now from what it was”.
Amalgamation of KwaZulu Police
I was involved in the amalgamation of the KwaZulu Police into the SAPS. It was not easy! I was threatened many times in far off places like Ulundi and Nongoma and other rural places. Some did not want “Mandela’s” police. I can attest to the fact that even about three years after April 1994, there were still some ex-KwaZulu Police stations where members wore their old uniforms and had photographs of the Zulu king and late KwaZulu Chief Minister, Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi displayed prominently in the charge office.
Shutting down of the Chatsworth District
I was also responsible for compiling the report for the shutting down of the Chatsworth District Headquarters. I was transferred there at its inception and now, I had the task of dismantling it! It was an apartheid structure. The writing of the report was done with pleasure. My recommendations were approved by the Provincial Commissioner and National Head Office and the District Head Office of Chatsworth was done away with! Three stations reverted to Durban West and one to Durban South. The personnel at the former District office were placed at stations of their choice. I must acknowledge that many were very knowledgeable and efficient and many of the officers went on to attain higher ranks.
Formation of Durban Metropolitan Police
I was also on the committee responsible for the formation of the Durban Metro Police to replace the old Durban City Police. This committee was chaired by the Chief Magistrate of Durban and comprised of many relevant stakeholders in the Criminal Justice field.
I also served on the committee dealing with Provincial Magistrates boundaries as well as the one dealing with the handing over of police mortuaries to the Department of Health.
During September 1995 Natty Govender and I attended another course at the Technikon in Pretoria.
TECHNIKON PRETORIA
MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS COURSE
COURSE 21/95
From 1995-09-26 till1995-11-25
Management Systems Course
Front row, seated, L-R, 4th Natty Govender; 5th Krish Thaver
Promotion to Brigadier & Head of Management Services
In April 1997 I was promoted to the rank Director (Brigadier) and appointed Head of Management Services in KZN. My Provincial Commissioner was Lieutenant General Chris Serfontein. After the retirement of General Serfontein, I served for a short period under Lieutenant General Khanyile (late). Changes in working methods and procedures were happening all the time and by now discipline in the police was deteriorating. Many of us from the “old school” were unhappy. A large number also went on early retirement and institutional knowledge was diminishing rapidly. The Service was forgetting the basics. People with no knowledge were being promoted and competent people overlooked. I remain sincerely grateful for the support of Colonel Natty Govender.
I was fortunate in having him working with me. He was an extremely efficient and capable officer.
Brigadier Natty Govender
Evaluation committee of SA Police. Pietermaritzburg Central were winners in 1999
I was disillusioned with the way things were going, and to compound matters, my dear wife was seriously ill. This gave me the excuse for applying for the severance package. It was granted and I left the Service in April 2000. I was not yet 54 years old. My wife passed away in 2001.
Service Awards
Whilst in the Service I was awarded the following medals:
- SA Police Medal for long service, 10 years of Loyal Service and Exemplary Conduct;
- SA Police Star for Faithful Service for 20 years Faithful service and Exemplary Conduct;
- SA Police for Merit for 30 years faithful service and Exemplary Conduct;
- SA Police 75th Anniversary Commemorative medal;
- SA Police Medal for combatting terrorism
Retirement
Upon retirement I was appointed Commissioner of Oaths by the Minister of Justice.
Shortly after my retirement, former Lieutenant General Serfontein and I formed the company “George Fivaz and Associates KZN”. The parent company was headed by my former boss, General George Fivaz. In 2009 I underwent heart surgery and decided to “pack it in”.
In my opinion the undermentioned Generals were two of the best the SA Police had.
The first National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General George Fivaz
The former Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal Lieutenant General Chris Serfontein
For the past 17 years I have travelled to many overseas countries and undertaken long road journeys to many southern African countries with my dear friend, former Colonel VG Naidoo. We also play golf together with a good friend Brigadier Morris Moodley (a brilliant detective). Don’t be surprised to see us in remote parts of the country trying out new golf courses!
One of our many trips to Cape Town during 2021
Malelane Golf Club
L-R, Brigadier Jason Syster; Brigadiers Chris Thaver; Morris Moodley; Colonel Daniel VG Naidoo
Chris Thaver on the Metropolitan Golf Course Cape Town 2025
I still belong to the Christian Police Association and attend the annual conferences with Colonel VG Naidoo.
Christian Police Association Conference, 2025 in Eswatini
L-R, Colonel VG Naidoo; Lieutenant General Sharon Jeptha; Brigadier Chris Thaver; Brigadier (Reverend) S Nkosi; Chief Chaplin of Eswathi, Reverend Dlamini
Durban Retired Officer’s Social Club
I am also happy to say that I belong to the Durban Retired Officers Club and meet with friends and colleagues at least once a month. It is wonderful to meet with these retired officers and reminisce about the old times and have outings together. At almost 80 years life is still good!
SA Police, retired Officer’s Social Club, Yearend function, Durban. Officers with their spouses
SA Police, retired Officer’s Social Club, Durban
L-R, Brigadiers, Chris Thaver; Morris Moodley and Roland Clayton
With my children from left to right: Janet, Donovan and Lucy 7 years ago
My eldest daughter, Lucy, followed me into the Police Service and has 33 years of service. She is a Captain in Legal Services at Provincial Head Office in KZN. She is married to Lieutenant Colonel Mano Govender based in Pinetown. My second daughter, Janet, is a social worker living in England for the past 25 years. My son, Donovan, was a policeman for several years but after years of frustration resigned and is now a successful businessman. As a family we have given a combined total of almost 120 years of service to the police.
Lieutenant-Colonel M Govender (Son-in-Law) and Captain Lucy Govender (Eldest Daughter
With my grandchildren left to right: Kelsey, Kaelan, Callum, Braeden and in front, Elizabeth at Oribi Gorge, South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal 2023
26 years after leaving the police, I still consider my time in the Service as the best days of my life.
AFTERWORD
Colonel (Advocate) Jay Govender, Provincial, Legal Services, Province of KwaZulu Natal
It is an honour to introduce this compelling account of the life and service of Brigadier Krishna (Chris) Thaver. His story is not merely a personal narrative-it is a reflection of a generation of police officers who served with resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment during some of the most complex and defining periods in South Africa’s history.
For me, this foreword carries an added layer of meaning. It is one of those rare coincidences in life that deepens one’s appreciation of a person’s legacy. Brigadier Thaver was, in fact, connected to my own family through my father, former Captain Derrick Moodley. I recall Brigadier Thaver at family gatherings in years gone by, without fully appreciating the stature of the man or the depth of his contribution to the Service.
Years later, in 2021, when I joined SAPS Legal Services, that connection took on a new significance. His daughter, Captain Lucy Govender, became one of my closest colleagues and friends. Through her, I came to know Brigadier Thaver not only as a decorated officer, but as a father, a grandfather, and a man deeply devoted to his family. The stories she shared-of her childhood, of his travels during retirement, of the remarkable bond he shares with his grandchildren, and of the values he instilled in his children-painted a picture of a man whose legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements.
Through this connection, I have also come to know other members of his family. I am acquainted with his son-in-law, a seasoned and highly dedicated police officer, currently serving as a Lieutenant-Colonel at SAPS Pinetown, whose own commitment to policing reflects the same values of discipline and service. I have further had the privilege of meeting his grandson, Kaelan, and his granddaughter, Kelsey. Kelsey’s academic achievement in completing her LLM is commendable, and her decision to pursue a path in teaching abroad in South Korea speaks to independence, courage, and a willingness to chart one’s own course-qualities that resonate with the legacy of her grandfather.
As if these connections were not meaningful enough, I later learned from my mother that Brigadier Thaver’s late wife, Lizzy, was in fact her childhood friend. My mother recalls with great fondness the time they spent together in Sawoti, sharing holidays and simple moments of companionship. She speaks of Lizzy’s elegance, beauty, kindness and warmth, even recalling how she assisted in caring for me as a child while we lived in police accommodation at Sawoti. These personal links, though formed long before I understood their significance, now stand as a powerful reminder of how closely intertwined our lives and histories can be.
Brigadier Thaver’s journey is marked by humble beginnings, shaped by hardship, and forged through perseverance. Entering the South African Police at a time when opportunity was limited and systemic barriers were entrenched, he distinguished himself not through entitlement, but through sheer determination, professionalism, and integrity. His rise through the ranks is not only a testament to his personal strength, but also to his steadfast belief in service above self.
What stands out throughout this account is not only the milestones he achieved-many of them historic-but the manner in which he achieved them. He led quietly, worked diligently, and remained grounded in values that are increasingly rare: humility, respect, discipline, and fairness. He navigated an evolving policing landscape, contributing meaningfully during times of transition, while never losing sight of the fundamental purpose of policing-service to the community.
This memoir speaks candidly about the challenges, including discrimination, institutional limitations, and personal sacrifices. Yet, it also highlights the importance of mentorship, camaraderie, and principled leadership. Brigadier Thaver’s career reminds us that even within imperfect systems, individuals of character can make a lasting impact.
Beyond the uniform, this is also the story of a devoted family man, a mentor, and a respected member of his community. His legacy lives not only in the ranks he held, but in the lives, he shaped, the relationships he nurtured, and the example he set.
This publication is more than a tribute to one man; it is a preservation of policing heritage. It ensures that the lessons, values, and experiences of a distinguished career are not lost, but instead serve to guide and inspire generations to come.
May this work stand as a lasting acknowledgement of a life lived with purpose and a career served with honour.
I salute you Brigadier Thaver
Acknowledgement
I wish to recognize and thank these officers for their tireless, often
unseen efforts in helping with the creation and publication of this
magazine.
Brigadier Hennie Heymans, Editor in Chief of Nongqai
An experienced and highly skilled officer with an exceptional memory. His Dad was stationed at Somtseu Road and Mount Edgecombe during the 1940’s. Brigadier holds a Master’s degree in History. Was stationed with Lieutenant-Colonel (Ray) Mathura Munilall at Wentworth. He was also based at King’s Rest (Brighton Beach); and amongst others, Soweto Region, The Public Relations Officer at Head Office and later a District Commandant at Welkom in the Free State Province.
Captain DME Lazarus
Captain DME Lazarus, a Stalwart of SA Police, Chatsworth, Unit 02 & Unit 05, later SA Police, Training College, Chatsworth and Supply Chain Management, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. An experienced and highly skilled officer with an exceptional memory.
Captain (Sooks) P Sokaloo
Captain (Sooks) P Sokaloo laying a wreath at a Commemoration Service in Pietermaritzburg. His Dad was a World War 11 veteran. An experienced and highly skilled officer. He was nominated by Lieutenant General Andre Pruis to represent the SA Police at Interpol in the illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs, etc
I must also acknowledge the outstanding contributions and enduring commitment of those who strive to preserve our policing heritage.
My sincere thanks and appreciation go to:
- Brigadier Hennie Heymans [HBH], Editor-in-Chief of Nongqai, whose scholarship, experience, and visionary dedication made this Special Edition possible;
- Major General Oswald D Reddy, Western Cape Police Ombudsman for the Foreword;
- Colonel (Advocate) Jay Govender, Provincial Legal Services, KwaZulu-Natal;
- Major General (Professor) George D Govender [GDG], for his professional insight, motivation, guidance, encouragement, and steadfast support;
- Advocate Karen Pillay, daughter of the late Colonel Rungasamy “Dickey” Munsamy, for the Foreword, her professional insight, motivation guidance, encouragement, and steadfast support;
- Advocates (Lieutenant General) Sally Khan; Yolan Denness; Thiveshnee Govender; Captains DME Lazarus and PS Sokaloo for their valued contributions and shared historical knowledge;
- And finally, to my family, for their patience, encouragement, and understanding throughout the journey of refining this autobiography.
“Agnoscere et honorare servientibus” –
“To acknowledge and honour those who served” “Soli Deo Gloria” – “To God Alone Glory”
Logan Govender
