A Nation Mourns: Funeral Held for Constable Boipelo Senoge

A solemn atmosphere filled the Anglican Church in Rocklands, Bloemfontein, as mourners gathered to pay their final respects to Constable Boipelo Senoge. The funeral, held on Wednesday, drew family members, close friends, and colleagues from the South African Police Service (SAPS), all united in grief for the young officer who tragically lost her life in the line of duty.

Among the attendees were high-ranking government and police officials, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, and Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae. Their presence underscored the gravity of the loss and the deep respect for Senoge’s service to her country.

Constable Senoge was one of three SAPS officers whose bodies were discovered in the Hennops River in Centurion, Pretoria, last week. The trio had gone missing on April 23 while en route to their deployment destination in Limpopo. Surveillance footage last captured them at a petrol station, sparking a search that ended in heartbreak. The tragic discovery has left the police service and the nation reeling.

Senoge’s death has drawn widespread sympathy, particularly given the timing. She passed away just days before her 24th birthday, which would have been celebrated on May 5. Her young age and dedication to her duty have been highlighted in tributes pouring in from across the country.

Speaking at the funeral, Minister Mchunu expressed deep sorrow and emphasized the need for unity within the SAPS in the face of such a profound loss. “Today, we do not just mourn a colleague; we mourn a sister, a daughter, and a brave soul who served this country with honor,” he said.