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SAPS launch search for three missing police officers

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The Police have launched an urgent search for 3 missing police officers. They were last seen near Grasmere Toll Plaza. At the same time, the Ministry of Police has expressed deep concern over the disappearance of 3 South African Police Service (SAPS) members, who went missing on Wednesday, 23 April 2025.

SAPS Launches Search for 3 Missing Police Officers

 

The missing officers—Constable Linda Cebekhulu (24), Constable Keamogetswe Buys (30), and Constable Boipelo Senoge (20)—were last seen at the Engen garage near the Grasmere toll plaza on the N1. The trio, who were off duty, was reportedly travelling from Bloemfontein to Limpopo in a white VW Polo sedan (registration number JCL 401 FS). Since their last known location, all attempts to reach their cellphones and vehicle tracking system have failed, raising alarm about their safety.

READ MORE: Meeting the investigating team and the families of the 3 missing constables

The police officers were off duty

 

In response, the SAPS has launched a full-scale investigation involving a high-level task team of detectives and crime intelligence officers from Gauteng and the Free State. A 24-hour Venue Operational Centre (VOC) has been established to coordinate the search efforts.

SAPS launch search for three missing police officers

High-level task team

 

Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, assured the public that the SAPS is following every possible lead.

He said, “These are highly valued members of our service. We urge the public to come forward with any information. No detail is too small.”

SAPS launch search for three missing police officers

The families of the missing officers have been briefed and are receiving continuous support from SAPS leadership.

SAPS launch search for three missing police officers

R350,000 reward

 

To aid the investigation, the National Commissioner has offered a R350,000 reward for information leading to the safe return of the officers or the arrest of those responsible. The public is urged to contact Captain Chaacha Manga at 082 527 6099 with any relevant information. Brigadier Athlenda Mathe says their vehicle tracking device and cellphones have been off since the day of their disappearance. She says at this stage, the Police are investigating a case of possible hijacking and kidnapping.

SAPS launch search for three missing police officers

This incident highlights the dangers faced by SAPS members and the importance of community cooperation in bringing them home safely.

READ MORE: Crime activists launch new missing persons unit in Cape Town

Merentia Van Der Vent
Merentia Van Der Vent
Merentia joined the media world in 1996 and in 2001, she took her first steps in the broadcasting world. In her free time, she likes to go on adventures in the city. She also likes to learn new dances, not that she is any good at that.

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