EASTERN CAPE – The service for the burial of the late Warrant Officer SG Mphakati has started at Mncuncuzo Locality in Cofimvaba this morning. In attendance is the SAPS Management led by Divisional Commissioner, Lieutenant General Michael Mohlala from Division Visible Policing and Eastern Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Dladla.

The late Warrant Officer Mphakati was stationed at the Railway Police in the Western Cape where he spent his last days in the service of his country and its people.

Siyakubonga Mphakathi (uGambu) died in the line of duty after he was fatally attacked by criminals.

Speaking at the opening of the service, his father who has fathered six (6) of his children told the mourners that he has accepted the will of God for the departure of his dear son. He however, conceded that the pain of losing his son is excruciatingly untold.

All the local speakers, his colleagues and Commanders, some of whom grew up with him expressed their pain whilst describing him as a very humble, and loyal man who was committed to his calling.

After being introduced by the Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Zithulele Dladla, the Divisional Commissioner for Policing Lt Gen Mohlala took the stand and delivered his message on behalf of the National Commissioner of Police, General SF Masemola.

Outlining his message, Lieutenant General Mohlala told a fully packed tent of mourners that their pain is the pain of the SAPS. He condemned the heartless and brutal killing of Warrant Officer Mphakathi. Lt Gen Mohlala vowed that the SAPS will track down the killers of the SAPS member to answer for their actions. He urged the community of Cofimvaba not to hide but expose the criminal element within their communities and that they should partner with the police through recognised structures like the Community Police Forums.

Source: South African Police Service