Central SA
Substance abuse raises alarm after North West constable’s murder─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 09:43 Tue, 08 Apr 2025
The murder of a North West police constable has raised concerns over the increasing involvement of youth in crime and substance abuse.
Const. Eric Tekolo (41) was fatally wounded on Friday evening (4/4) in the Phohung Section, Ganyesa Village, outside Vryburg.
Tekolo was found with stab wounds and rushed to a local clinic, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack, reportedly linked to a robbery.
Kunene Karabo (25), Sebolai Taolo (23), and Setlhabetsi Boikanyo (19) appeared before the Ganyesa Magistrate’s Court on Monday on charges of robbery and murder. The case was postponed to Wednesday, 16 April, for a formal bail application.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and the suspects remain in police custody, said North West police spokesperson Capt. Mpho Manyoba.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Maj. Gen. Patrick Asaneng voiced his deep concern over the rising involvement of young people in crime and substance abuse, which he believes contributed to the brutal murder.
Such acts of violence not only affect the victims but also deprive the community and the country of young, promising individuals who could have contributed positively to society.
“The involvement of youth in crime and substance abuse is a serious concern that we cannot ignore. It has led to the loss of a dedicated law enforcement officer who wanted to serve and protect his community,” said Asaneng.
“This senseless, barbaric murder confirms the moral decay and gratuitous violence that is increasingly prevalent in our society. The suspects’ actions have not only brought shame to their families but have also caused unbearable pain to the loved ones, friends, and colleagues of the late Constable Tekolo.”
Community Safety and Transport Management MEC Wessels Morweng visited the grieving family murdered police officer, photo: Supplied.
Community Safety and Transport Management MEC Wessels Morweng visited the grieving family of Tekolo in Ganyesa to convey his condolences on Monday. He commended the police for their swift action in apprehending the suspects and expressed his heartfelt sympathy to the deceased’s family, colleagues, and the community.
