On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), family members, and the broader community came together at Bobbiespark Hall in Bloemfontein to pay tribute to three young constables whose bodies were tragically found in the Hennops River in Centurion. The memorial service was a somber occasion marked by heartfelt speeches, shared grief, and collective remembrance.
Constable Cebekhulu Linda (24), Constable Keamogetswe Buys (30), and Constable Boipelo Senoge (20) were reported missing on April 23. After an extensive search operation, their bodies were eventually recovered, bringing an end to the uncertainty but deepening the sorrow felt by their loved ones, colleagues, and the nation.
The service drew a large crowd, with the Bobbiespark Hall filled to capacity by members of SAPS, Correctional Services, various government departments, and local community members. Among the dignitaries present was Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, who expressed condolences to the grieving families and called for dignity and respect in the wake of their loss.
“These young officers were heroes in their own right,” Letsoha-Mathae stated. “We’re still mourning the loss of our soldiers in the DRC, and now we are once again gathered to grieve for those who died in service to our country. I urge social media users to refrain from spreading false information. It only adds pain to already suffering families.”
Brigadier SP Kubheka, who served as Buys and Linda’s commander in the SAPS Intelligence Department, highlighted the dedication and potential of the fallen officers. He recalled how Constable Buys, despite being a qualified Information Technology professional, chose to serve in law enforcement, specializing in cybercrime. Constable Linda, the son of a former policeman, was known for his passion for vehicles and his unwavering commitment to duty.
National Police Commissioner, General Fanie Masemola, commended the relentless efforts of the investigation teams. “When I first met with the families, we had no idea where the officers were,” he said. “But through tireless work, the team traced the investigation to Centurion. After seven long days, we recovered Linda’s vehicle and ultimately the bodies of the three officers, along with two others.”
General Masemola encouraged the bereaved families to seek support from Free State Police Commissioner General Baile Motswenyane whenever needed. He acknowledged the public’s messages of sympathy and criticism, emphasizing the importance of transparency and support during such difficult times.
The three constables will be laid to rest between Thursday, May 8 and Saturday, May 10, with ceremonies planned in both Bloemfontein and Thaba Nchu. Their memory will endure, not just within SAPS, but in the hearts of all who recognize their sacrifice and service.
Their dedication and courage remind us of the risks law enforcement officers face daily—and of the nation’s duty to honour them with dignity, truth, and lasting gratitude.
