Gauteng SAPS honours brave officers lost in the line of duty
These great men and women did not flee when faced with danger; they stood firm in their defence of the defenceless, staying true to their oath as officers.
September 14 was a sombre day at the Linden Police Station, as the SAPS, led by provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, honoured officers who had died in the line of duty.
The commemorative event at the station’s Garden of Remembrance highlighted the loss of four officers killed in the 2025/26 financial year.
They were remembered for their courage, dedication and commitment to serving and protecting the Gauteng community.
ALSO READ: Bedfordview SAPS arrests 59 suspects in major crime operation
Captain Wynand du Toit, of Springs Police Station, was shot and killed as he intercepted suspects committing a business robbery in Springs on February 16, Sergeant Winnie Ntila was shot and killed by suspects committing a house robbery in Vosloorus on September 3, 2024, Warrant Officer Sello Joel Masedi was hit by a car at an accident scene in Mohlakeng, while Warrant Officer Mzukisi November was hit by a speeding vehicle at a roadblock in Springs.
November’s wife, Nthabiseng, described him as someone who not only loved his job but would do anything to protect the community. “He didn’t mind going the extra mile for people.”
November started his career in 2001, working at the OR Tambo International Airport before becoming a warrant officer.
“On the last day of his life, he was headed to a roadblock in Springs. That morning, he was just bubbly.”
Two hours after he left home, Nthabiseng received a call that officers needed to meet with her.
“They came to my workplace, telling me my husband had died. It was the shock of my life. I didn’t expect it.”
ALSO READ: Edenvale SAPS leads GBV crime prevention at Verge Shopping Centre
His death came a week after he learnt he would be a grandfather, a role he was eager to fulfil. As a husband and father, he was a protector who loved his family.
Mthombeni said such events serve as a show of commitment, honouring fallen officers while renewing the SAPS’ resolve to fight crime, uphold justice and ensure the sacrifices of members are never forgotten.
“This includes supporting families and carrying forward the legacy of the members.”
These officers did not flee when faced with danger; they stood firm defending the defenceless, staying true to their oath.
The commissioner assured the grieving families that the SAPS would take care of the educational needs of their children.
