SAPS Pledges Credible Report as Families Await Answers in Hennops River Tragedy Involving Three Constables
In a commitment to transparency amid growing calls for closure, the South African Police Service has reaffirmed its dedication to delivering a thorough and reliable report on the deaths of three constables whose bodies were discovered in the Hennops River earlier this year. Constables Cebekhulu Linda, Keamogetswe Buys, and Boipelo Senoge went missing in April 2025 while on a work assignment, prompting heartache and questions from their families and communities. SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe stated on Monday, 29 September 2025, that while some reports are in hand, key tests like toxicology remain pending, delaying the final conclusions. This update comes five months after the incident, as loved ones continue to seek clarity on what led to the tragic plunge of their vehicle into the river.
The case has highlighted the challenges in investigating such accidents, with SAPS relying on external experts for complex analyses. As South Africans reflect on the risks faced by law enforcement officers on duty, this story underscores the need for swift resolutions to bring peace to grieving families. This article delves into the details of the incident, the ongoing investigation, family pleas for answers, similar cases in the region, and the broader implications for police accountability.
The Tragic Incident: A Work Trip Turns Fatal
The three constables—Constable Cebekhulu Linda (24), Constable Keamogetswe Buys (30), and Constable Boipelo Senoge (20)—were last seen on 23 April 2025, leaving a petrol station near Johannesburg. They were en route from Bloemfontein to Limpopo for a work assignment when their vehicle is believed to have plunged into the Hennops River. The trio was reported missing, sparking a search that ended days later with the recovery of their bodies from the river. Initial reports suggest the accident occurred under unclear circumstances, with no immediate witnesses, leaving families and investigators piecing together what happened on that fateful journey.
The Hennops River, located in Gauteng near Centurion, has a history of vehicle accidents due to its proximity to major roads like the N14 and R511, where flooding or poor visibility can lead to vehicles veering off. In this case, the constables’ car was found submerged, and recovery efforts involved divers and emergency teams working in challenging conditions. The loss of these young officers, all in their 20s and 30s, has been described as a profound blow to their families and the SAPS community, who mourned them with tributes highlighting their dedication to service.
Ongoing Investigation: Awaiting Key Toxicology and Evidence Results
SAPS has maintained that the probe is active and receiving focused attention, with both internal and external specialists involved. Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe explained: “Preliminary post-mortem reports have been received, but the final reports, which will include blood alcohol results, toxicology, and histology, are still awaited. These findings are critical before the investigation can be concluded. In addition, analysis of physical evidence is still underway. This process is complex as the SAPS relies on external specialists for certain examinations. While the SAPS accident expert report has been finalised, it is not in itself conclusive. The outcome of this investigation depends on a combination of all expert findings.”
The delay stems from the need for comprehensive testing, including blood alcohol levels to rule out impairment, toxicology for any substances, and histology for tissue analysis to determine exact causes of death. Physical evidence from the vehicle and scene is also under review, which could reveal mechanical faults, road conditions, or other factors. SAPS has reiterated its commitment to a credible report, emphasising that all angles are being explored to provide clear answers.
This thorough approach is standard for cases involving public servants, ensuring no stone is left unturned, but the wait has frustrated families who seek closure to begin healing.
Families’ Plea for Answers: Five Months of Uncertainty
Five months on, the families of Constables Linda, Buys, and Senoge remain in the dark, expressing frustration over the slow pace. They have publicly called for updates, with some questioning if the investigation is prioritised given the officers’ roles in SAPS. The trio’s disappearance and discovery prompted immediate searches, but the lack of final reports has left loved ones grappling with unanswered questions about the accident’s cause.
In interviews, family members have shared their grief, noting how the officers were dedicated professionals on duty when tragedy struck. Community leaders have joined the calls, urging SAPS to expedite the process for the sake of closure and to honour the fallen constables’ service.
Similar Cases: Road Risks for Law Enforcement
This incident is not isolated; South African roads pose significant dangers to police officers on assignment. In recent years, multiple cases have seen SAPS members lose their lives in vehicle accidents while travelling for work. For instance, in Limpopo, a similar plunge into a river claimed lives, highlighting the perils of long-distance duties on poorly maintained highways. The Hennops River area has seen other drownings and crashes, often due to flooding or driver error, underscoring the need for better vehicle safety protocols within SAPS.
Nationally, road accidents remain a leading cause of death for officers, with fatigue, poor visibility, and mechanical issues frequently cited. These tragedies prompt ongoing reviews of travel policies, but families argue more must be done to protect those serving the public.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za