The disappearance and deaths of Consts Linda Cebekhulu (24), Keamogetswe Buys (30), and Boipelo Senoge (20) have raised more questions than answers, with the investigation still ongoing. The three officers were reported missing in April while travelling from Bloemfontein to Limpopo for deployment. 

What began as a hopeful search quickly descended into national mourning when their submerged vehicle and bodies were discovered days later in separate sections of the river. Despite early reports, a clear explanation of what transpired on that journey has not yet emerged.

The case remains active and is receiving focused attention, confirmed National police spokesperson Brig. Athlenda Mathe. While some progress has been made, several key forensic reports are still outstanding.

“Preliminary post-mortem reports have been received, but the final reports, which will include blood alcohol results, toxicology and histology, are still awaited.” These findings are essential to bring the investigation to a close, she added.  

Analysis of physical evidence is still underway, with both internal police units and external forensic specialists involved in the process. While the SAPS accident expert report has been finalised, she cautioned that it is not in itself conclusive.

OFM News previously reported that Linda’s father, Sipho Linda, had expressed the deep anguish felt by the families still searching for clarity.

“We still have questions. We have questions because, at first, this was reported as hijacking or kidnapping. Then we were told that it was an accident. 

“The way the accident happened, we believe it was an accident, but what led to the accident? That is what we want to know.”

Car accident

Meanwhile, during the final send-off of one of the constables, National Police Commissioner Gen. Fannie Masemola sought to dispel rumours, reiterating that all three officers died in a car accident. He explained that Senoge, who was driving the vehicle, was found in the front section of the wreck along with Cebekhulu Linda, he said. 

This part of the vehicle was the first to be discovered in the river. The back portion, where Buys had been seated, was recovered several kilometres downstream.

Police have reaffirmed their commitment to finalising this investigation with the required diligence, mindful of the sensitivity of the case for the families, colleagues and the public.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh