The North West Province confirms the tragic death of a police officer who drowned while on duty in the Phokeng policing area.
Constable Gift Mota, aged 25, attached to the Visible Policing Crime Prevention Unit at Phokeng, was performing patrol duties with fellow members when they were approached by a community member who alleged that they had spotted a suspect linked to cases of robbery and burglary.
The police members accompanied the community member to the Masosobane and Raffredy sections, a bushy area with a nearby dam. Upon spotting the suspect, the members gave chase.
The suspect ran into the dam, and during the pursuit, Constable Mota entered the water. He subsequently disappeared from sight while swimming behind the suspect.
The diving unit was activated and sadly recovered the body of the constable from the dam shortly after the incident.
An inquest docket has been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Constable Mota had been transferred to Phokeng in November 2025 and was originally from Ermelo in Mpumalanga.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in the North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has expressed his deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased member.
Commissioner stated “We have lost a dedicated police officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty while serving and protecting the community. Constable Mota’s bravery and commitment will not be forgotten.
The police stand with his family during this painful time and will ensure that they receive the necessary support.”
He further called on communities to continue working closely with the police in the fight against crime, while also acknowledging the dangers that police officers face daily in the execution of their duties.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
