By Libuseng Nyaka
QWAQWA – Police minister Senzo Mchunu has revealed that a Lesotho national has been arrested and confessed to the killing of two police officers Constable Gedione Motaung (39), and Sipho Mohapi (45).
Mchunu disclosed this at the funeral service of Constable Gedione Motaung at St Martin Roman Catholic Church in Phuthaditjhaba on Thursday January 16 2025.
“Police have already arrested a Lesotho national. He was riding a horse and when he saw the police he fled but police were able to nab him. He has confessed to killing the police officers along with other four suspects who are still at large.
“We will be accused of being xenophobic but what must we say when a foreigner leaves his country and comes here to kill our police officers? Police must retaliate and protect themselves; we cannot afford to lose our members.”
While consoling the family to accept the loss, Mchunu instructed Free State Commissioner of Police to ensure that those remaining suspects are arrested so that justice can be served.
Mchunu was accompanied by national police commissioner Lieutenant Fanie Masemola, Free State police MEC Jabu Mbalula as well as Free state commissioner of police Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane.
Mourners who attended the funeral of Motloung on Thursday described Motloung as a community builder and a selfless hero who dedicated his life not only to protecting his community as a cop but also to tackling social issues affecting his community especially the vulnerable, young and elderly.
“He was a community builder and a leader and hero to our children; he had established a football club in order to remove young people from the streets. He was a people’s servant who was not reluctant to assist the elderly. He was also a committed Christian who never missed his church contributions.”
The secretary of Men’s Forum at St Martin Catholic Church, Daniel Matebesi, said Motloung had a peaceful face and reflected his respect with the way he conducted himself, especially when he was shown his mistakes.
Police officers carrying remains of their slain colleague Constable Gedione Motloung.
“A respectful person who always acknowledged when he had made a mistake. We call on men to emulate Gedione who was not only a community protector but a leader who practiced what he preached.”
A visibly distraught Free State Commissioner of Police said Constable Motaung was a true reflection of the saying that your works will follow you.
“He started working as a volunteer from 2008 to 2021 when he was employed and later became a constable. It is his good behavior and dedication that led to his employment.”
