Police have launched an extensive search operation following the mysterious disappearance of three young constables last seen in the early hours of Thursday (24/4).

The missing officers, Constable Linda Cebekhulu (24), Constable Keamogetswe Buys (30), and Constable Boipelo Senoge (20) were traveling from Bloemfontein to Limpopo in a white VW Polo sedan with registration number JCL 401 FS. They were last spotted at an Engen garage near the Grasmere toll plaza on the N1 highway.

Addressing media at the Park Road Police Station in Bloemfontein on Sunday (27/4), Police National Commissioner, Gen. Fannie Masemola, expressed deep concern over what appears to be a troubling trend.

“It is a growing trend; people disappear but there are those that we have found. Remember, here was a pastor in the Free State that disappeared but was found. Recently, there was also a pastor in Nelson Mandela Bay, who was kidnapped and was found, after taken by criminals“, said Gen Masemola. “Yes, it is a growing trend where people are being kidnapped for ransom or whatever, but in this case, there is nothing yet, we don’t know what is happening.”

Authorities have pledged to use every available resource to find the missing officers. “We have pulled maximum resources together to find the young police officers safe, unharmed and alive, and this remains our key focus,” Masemola emphasised. “Our second focus, is to find those who are behind the disappearance of these members.”

Families of missing constables alongside National police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe and Free State MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport, Jabu Mbalula, photo: Facebook.

Investigations have already expanded to examine potential leads, including a white bakkie seen on surveillance footage. The vehicle was observed stopping next to the constables' car at the garage. The bakkie’s driver exited the vehicle, walked behind the bakkie, and then left the scene. Gen. Masemola confirmed that police are also investigating the driver of the bakkie.

Two of the missing constables are reportedly attached to the Free State Crime Intelligence Unit and were on special duty in Limpopo. The youngest officer, Constable Senoge, is based at the Park Road police station and serves in the Community Service Centre.

Meanwhile police have offered a reward of R350.000 for any leads that may result in locating the missing officers. Members of the public are urged to come forward if they have any concrete information by contacting the investigating officer, Captain Chaacha Manga, at 082 527 6099. Families of the missing police constable have also urged public to assit in reuniting them with their loved ones and expressed appreciation to police for their intensified efforts.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi lh