A police officer from Tshiozwi tragically lost his life in the line of duty after being struck by a car during a roadblock on the R521 on Friday, 25 August.
Sgt Lutendo Thathaisa (39), who was stationed at Mogwadi SAPS in Dendron, was in the process of stopping oncoming vehicles from the south during a roadblock when a speeding vehicle, coming from the north, reportedly struck him. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Limpopo police spokesperson Lt Col Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the incident and stated that a case of culpable homicide and possible negligent driving would be investigated. "Local police and emergency personnel were called to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the officer critically injured," Ledwaba said.
Thathaisa was also a soccer player for Gogobole Bucs, a team of the Makhado Local Football league. His twin brother, Mr Jomo Thathaisa, expressed the family's devastation upon receiving the news. "We have received numerous messages of condolences from various areas, demonstrating that Lutendo had been welcoming to everyone, regardless of their background," he said.
MEC for Transport and Community Safety Florence Radzilani also conveyed her sincere condolences to the family and Thathaisa's colleagues. Radzilani emphasized the department's deep concern for the safety of their officers on the roads while performing their duties. "It is our collective responsibility to collaborate with the police, transport, and traffic officials to ensure safer roads for all road users."
A memorial service will be held for Thathaisa at the Tshiozwi AFM church on Thursday, 31 August, at 12:00. The funeral service will take place in Tshiozwi on Saturday, 2 September, at 06:00.