Douglasdale police bid farewell to fallen sergeant at Indaba Hotel memorial service
Tributes poured in as members of the police, family, and friends honoured the late Sergeant Phuti Malete, whose legacy of service will not be forgotten, especially when it comes to gender-based violence.
“The station will never be the same,” said Douglasdale police officers as they were grieving the passing of Sergeant Phuti Malete, on April 22 at Indaba Hotel.
Malete passed away on April 15 due to a short illness at the age of 43. She was working for the station.
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The memorial service was also attended by her bereaved family, who were visibly distraught.
Members of the station, some dressed in the uniform Malete loved, filled the room as they came together to honour a colleague remembered for her warmth, humility, and unwavering dedication to her work.
Brigadier Veeshani Arikum, the station commander, described Malete as one of the most loving and humble people she had worked with.
“Her laughter always filled the room, and her smooth, comforting voice brought ease to those around her. This is a huge loss for the family in blue.”
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Malete served the Douglasdale community for 16 years and earned respect from both colleagues and residents because of her passion and commitment.
She was especially recognised for her work in handling gender-based violence cases, where her compassion and calm approach helped support victims during difficult times.
@caxtonjoburgnorth Colleagues of Sergeant Phuti Malete celebrate her life at her memorial service. Video: Reitumetse Gugushe #caxtonlocalmedia #newsupdate #Localnews #johannesburg #2026 #Communitynews #Fourways ♬ original sound Caxton Joburg North
“Malete had a unique ability to comfort and care for her community. She served with love in everything she did,” Arikum added.
Other speakers during the memorial described Malete as a kind-hearted and gentle soul whose life was cut short too soon, leaving a void that will be deeply felt.
The medical facility that she was being treated at, the family said it was dire.“ We are not happy at all with the medical facility that our child was at considering that it is a private hospital the treatment was terrible.”
The Family announced that she will be buried on April 25, at Vlaakfontein and the service is expected to start at 06:00 by 07:00 they are proceeding to the cemetery.
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