Four fallen SAPS heroes remembered

On a very sombre Sunday at Westpol Square in Potchefstroom, wounds were opened again when North West SAPS honoured and remembered their fallen heroes who died while on duty during the 2015/2016 financial year.

Three of the four fallen heroes who were celebrated were WO Monnaemang Mathe, Sgt Charl Jonathan and Const. Thabo Tlhoaele who all passed away in car accidents. The fourth, Const. Johannes Mokotedi, lost his life while on patrol at Mooinooi shopping mall after being gunned down by armed robbers in November. At the time of his death, his wife, Tsholofelo, was expecting their baby, Amogelang Kaboentle. The inconsolable widow was accompanied by the 8-month-old baby and her two daughters, aged 7 and 9 respectively.

She was also joined by the three other bereaved families who received a message of comfort from Capt. (Rev.) MG Betha. He reminded them that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces character and character produces hope. ‘Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning,’ he said.

‘We live in a world where there is evil; that is why there is a need for the police. The pain that we now feel will soon pass. These children will grow up. This is the God of orphans and widows.

The NW police commissioner, Lt Gen Baile Motswenyane, said she understands the pain the families still carry in their hearts. She highlighted that they truly valued their loved ones and urged the communities throughout the province to stand together to fight crime. ‘Support us as we face difficult situations daily. Let us ensure that our communities are safe,’ she said.

She reminded the officials present that many people are hostile towards law enforcers. ‘September is police safety month. Therefore, be alert and be vigilant. Let us adhere to our SAPS standing orders and national instructions pertaining to safety. Safety begins with you,’ she said.

The NW MEC for community safety and transport management, Dr Mpho Motlhabane, said the commemoration was a special day, but also very sad. ‘We used to smile with them, laugh, eat and sometimes argue with them. We cannot forget the members we lost, they will always remain with us,’ he said.

He called on the public to support the police and stand against the killing of SAPS members. Seeing that three of the officers had lost their lives in car accidents, he admitted that the police vehicles were in a bad state but urged officials to always drive with caution. ‘Sometimes, situations force them to drive at top speed. At the end of the day, your lives are important. We appreciate your good work,’ he concluded.

Two SAPS members were honoured during last year’s Fallen Heroes event – Lt Col Manxusa and Sgt Pilane. Manxusa, who was stationed in Potchefstroom, also died in a car accident.