The South African Police Star for Distinguished Leadership was a high-ranking decoration, that existed between 1979 and 1986. It was reserved for senior police officers, and was awarded only twice. Recipients were entitled to use the post-nominal letters SED, standing for Stella Excellentis Ductus, the Latin form of the name.

Instituted on 1 May 1979, the SED was awarded to general officers of the South African Police

South African Police

The South African Police was the country's police force until 1994. The SAP traced its origin to the Dutch Watch, a paramilitary organization formed by settlers in the Cape in 1655, initially to protect civilians against attack and later to maintain law and order...

 for distinguished leadership, meritorious service contributing to state security, and outstanding service to heads of state or government. Both recipients were Commissioners of the SAP.

The SED is a gold Maltese cross with rays between the arms. In the centre is depicted a stylised aloe plant on a blue-bordered white disc on a gold diamond-shaped plaque. The reverse has the national coat of arms and the words "Stella Excellentis Ductus".

On ceremonial occasions, the SED was worn on a gold collar. On other occasions, it was worn on a neck ribbon of old-gold, with a white-blue-white centre panel. There is also a four-pointed multi-rayed breast star.

The SED was discontinued on 1 September 1986. After that date, police generals were awarded the Order of the Star of South Africa

Order of the Star of South Africa

The Order of the Star of South Africa was a South African honour. It was instituted on 1 July 1975, and was granted by the state president of South Africa, for services connected with national defence and security. It replaced the Star of South Africa decoration, instituted in 1952. The order...

(Non-Military) instead.