By Collin Mugadza
Centurion, South Africa – A somber cloud hangs over the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the families of three young constables who were found dead in the Hennops River this week after being missing for six days. The bodies of Keamogetswe Buys (30), Boipelo Senoge (20), and Cebekhulu Linda (24) were recovered following an extensive search operation that began after they disappeared on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
The officers were last seen at a petrol station near the Grasmere Toll Plaza while traveling in a white Volkswagen Polo from Bloemfontein in the Free State to Limpopo province, where they were reportedly deployed. Their vehicle tracking device and mobile phones were switched off shortly after, raising immediate concerns.
A large-scale search and rescue operation was launched, involving SAPS divers, drone units, and other specialized teams, who meticulously combed the N1 highway and surrounding areas, including the Hennops River. On Tuesday, April 29, the first of the bodies were discovered, with the remaining officers found the following day.
Adding to the tragedy, the bodies of two other individuals were also found in the river. One has been identified as an administrative clerk from the Lyttelton Police Station, who was reportedly driving a separate Renault Kangoo van found nearby. The fifth body was badly decomposed and has yet to be identified, leaving investigators with the complex task of determining if and how these deaths are connected.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola confirmed on Thursday the retrieval of the missing VW Polo from the Hennops River. Items, including a handbag, a vehicle service book, and keys, were found inside the submerged vehicle. Police hope that the recovery of the car will provide crucial clues to the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident.
“The retrieval of the vehicle and bodies will bring some measure of closure to the families of the fallen officers and our colleagues,” said General Masemola. “It has been a long and difficult process, but we hope this will help us determine what happened on that tragic day.”
While initial concerns of a possible hijacking were voiced, police are now indicating that an accident is a potential explanation, especially after the discovery of vehicle parts and a damaged guardrail near the river. However, General Masemola stressed that the investigation is ongoing, with forensic examinations and autopsies pending. He urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the police to complete their work.
The community has rallied in support of the bereaved families and the SAPS. A prayer session was held in Bloemfontein to offer comfort and solidarity. The National Police Commissioner expressed his gratitude for the support received during this difficult time.
The investigation involves multiple specialized units, including cybercrime experts and the Hawks, underscoring the commitment to uncovering the truth behind this tragedy that has deeply affected the South African Police Service and the nation. The focus remains on piecing together the events leading up to the officers’ disappearance and their deaths in the Hennops River.
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