…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media. South Africa has experienced a week of profound tragedy as seven police officers lost their lives within a span of just one week.
General Fannie Masemola, the national police commissioner, expressed his deep sadness at the loss of several members of the police force.
Identifying the Fallen Officers
The following officers tragically lost their lives during this week:
1. Detective Warrant Officer Neels Du Rand
2. Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi
3. Lieutenant-Colonel Morris Lekone Mohajane
4. Constable Ngwako Ronaldo Mohlopi (30)
5. Constable Sakhiwe Albert Mnende (33)
6. Constable Mmamatlhomola Maria Mokoena (34)
7. Sergeant Maja
Demise of Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi in Bloemfontein
In addition to the aforementioned officers, General Masemola paid tribute to Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi, who passed away earlier in the week in Bloemfontein.
Brigadier Mkhaulesi was known as a diligent and dedicated detective, having served in the force for over three decades.
The police commissioner extended his condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lieutenant Colonel Morris Lekone Mohajane, a detective commander from the Mooinooi police station, who was killed during a hijacking incident near his home.
Fatal Car Accident Claims Two Fochville Officers
General Masemola also acknowledged the loss of Constables Mohlopi, Mokoena, and Mdende from Fochville SAPS, who died in a car accident just outside Potchefstroom on Tuesday afternoon.
Furthermore, he expressed condolences for the deaths of Sergeant Maja, who was fatally shot during a shootout with suspects in Mamelodi, and Warrant Officer Durandt, the Detective Branch Commander of Villers in the Free State, who was fatally shot while responding to a truck hijacking.
Continued Implementation of Police Safety Strategy
General Masemola emphasized that the police force remains committed to implementing the Police Safety Strategy, which aims to enhance the safety and security of its members both on and off duty.
He concluded by expressing his hope that the souls of the departed officers may rest in peace.
Tributes to Tina Joemat Pettersson
In addition to honoring fallen officers, General Masemola paid tribute to Tina Joemat Pettersson, the late Chairperson of the National Assembly Portfolio Committee on Police, who passed away earlier in the week.
He commended her dedicated oversight role and her efforts to hold officials accountable in fulfilling their constitutional mandate.
Pettersson was known for her unwavering commitment to improving service delivery within the police force and her extensive visits to police stations, service points, and training academies.
General Masemola expressed the police force’s deep appreciation for her guidance and support in their ongoing mission to create a safer and better South Africa.
Pettersson’s Passing and Private Funeral
Tina Joemat Pettersson passed away at her Cape Town home on Monday at the age of 59.
She will be laid to rest in a private funeral, as per the wishes of her family, with the necessary support provided by the ANC and others attending the service.
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