Reporter – George April
CAPE TOWN — South Africa is reeling following the mysterious disappearance of three young police constables who vanished without a trace last week while traveling from Bloemfontein to Limpopo.
Picture – Facebook
According to an urgent media statement released by the Ministry of Police on 27 April 2025, the missing members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) are:
Constable Linda Cebekhulu (24),
Constable Keamogetswe Buys (30), and
Constable Boipelo Senoge (20).
Picture – Facebook
The trio was last seen at the Engen garage near the Grasmere toll plaza along the N1 on the evening of Wednesday, 23 April 2025. They were reportedly off duty and traveling in a white VW Polo sedan (registration number JCL 401 FS) when they disappeared. Disturbingly, all efforts to reach them via their vehicle tracking system and cell phones have failed.
SAPS has confirmed that a high-level investigation and search operation is now underway. A dedicated team of detectives and crime intelligence officers from Gauteng and Free State provinces is actively involved in the operation, with a 24-hour Venue Operational Centre (VOC) coordinating the efforts.
Minister of Police Bheki Mchunu expressed grave concern over the incident, stating:
“We have been briefed by the National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, who confirmed that every lead is being pursued. The families of the missing officers have been briefed, and our thoughts and prayers remain with them.”
In a show of urgency, the National Commissioner has also offered a R350,000 reward for information leading to the whereabouts of the constables or those responsible for their disappearance.
Picture – Facebook
Minister Mchunu further appealed to the public for assistance:
“These are our colleagues, our sons and daughters. We must act as one in ensuring their safe return. No piece of information is too small.”
The Ministry has acknowledged the strong support received from the Premier of the Free State, as well as the MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport.
Anyone with credible information is urged to contact the lead investigator, Captain Chaacha Manga, at 082 527 6099.
As the investigation intensifies, citizens across the country remain hopeful for the safe return of the three constables. It’s also a sobering reminder of the dangers faced daily by South Africa’s law enforcement officers.
