Csts Linda Cebekhul, 24, Keamogetswe Buys, 30, and Boipelo Senoge, 20, were reported missing in April while travelling from Bloemfontein to Limpopo for deployment. What began as a hopeful search soon turned into national mourning when their submerged vehicle was discovered in the Hennops River in Ceturion, followed by the recovery of their bodies days later in separate sections of the water. 

Although preliminary reports suggested the trio may have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, families say they are still seeking clear answers about what exactly transpired before the bodies of their loved ones were recovered.

Following visits to the bereaved families in Bloemfontein on Tuesday (27/1), police commissioner Gen. Fannie Masemola confirmed investigations are still ongoing and that final results are expected soon.

“The data leads one to say it is an accident that has happened, but there are areas that we still need to investigate to support that. We cannot conclusively say we are done with everything. 

“There are reports that we still need, especially from other experts.”

However, the families of the deceased officers have expressed dissatisfaction with the preliminary findings, saying they have raised more questions than answers about the mysterious circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Jane, Senoge’s mother, said the family would only find peace once the investigation is fully concluded. 

“I am not not 100% satisfied until the last whistle blows. Then everything will settle down with me.”

Speaking to SABC News, Cebekhulu’s father, Sipho, also voiced concern over the lack of clarity provided so far. “We had a meeting with the Saps, where we were given a report by experts and the Saps about what led to the accident. 

“I’m saying accident in inverted commas because we are still questioning somethings. We were promised that we would be given the final report within a month and all our questions would be answered.”

Senoge, who was driving, and Cebekhulu were found in the front section of the wrecked vehicle, while Buys’ body was located downstream with the rear portion of the car.

The Senoge family has openly rejected the conclusion that the deaths were caused by an accident. Speaking to OFM News, Senoge’s sister, Tshegofatso, said the family does not believe negligence was involved.

“My sister was a careful driver, that I know. I drove with her all the time, so it does not make sense to me.”

Alcohol possibility dismissed

Her father echoed these sentiments, adding that as an advanced driver himself, he has never encountered an accident scene with so many unanswered questions.

The family has also dismissed any suggestions that alcohol may have played a role in the incident. 

They emphasised that Boipelo Senoge was a responsible individual who would never have driven under the influence, particularly as she was pregnant at the time of her death.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh