_Seasoned spokesperson Sgt Kareli laid to rest with full honours_
By Teboho Moloi
KROONSTAD — The Free State SAPS lost more than a spokesperson — it lost a servant, a storyteller, and a man who wore the badge with pride.
Seasoned police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli was laid to rest on Saturday, 19 September, at Wespark Cemetery in Kroonstad in an emotional official funeral that drew family, colleagues, community members and the media fraternity he served so well.
Top brass were present, including Deputy National Commissioner Lieutenant General Mosikili and Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, who led tributes to a man described as respectful, warm and unwaveringly dedicated.
Kareli served 18 years with a clean disciplinary record — a rare honour in itself.
“He would advise you with respect when you had done something wrong. He really made me proud. Peter did this work with diligence and his whole being,” said Lesia, his voice heavy with emotion.
For many journalists, Kareli was the voice on the other end of the line — calm, credible and always willing to help, even after hours. For his community, he was more than a police official.
Speakers said he was a true servant of the people.
His close friend, Sammy Mofokeng, remembered a man of humour, creativity and deep discipline — a family man above all else.
“He was a very caring person. He used to advise me with a lot of things. He always put his family, especially his wife and kids first,” said Mofokeng.
“He was caring, respectful, had a huge sense of humour, was creative and disciplined, and was always willing to assist others.”
In Kroonstad, his hometown, the farewell was fitting for a man who gave 18 years to the blue uniform — a final salute to a seasoned communicator who told the police’s story with dignity, until the very end.
