- The Philippi police and community policing forum (CPF) mourn the loss of Constable Bonginkosi Zuko Bhobho, who was murdered while off duty.
- A memorial service was held for Bhobho at St Dominics Church in Hanover Park on 2 July, where the CPF expressed their deep condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.
- Bhobho, who served with bravery and dedication, was only 29 years old and had been active for just a year before his untimely death.
The Philippi police and community policing forum (CPF) have said a final farewell to one of their own, following the murder of Const Bonginkosi Zuko Bhobho while off-duty.
On Tuesday 2 July, officials hosted a memorial service for Bhobho at the St Dominics Church in Hanover Park.
In a statement on social media, the CPF wrote: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the tragic loss of one of our own, Const Bonginkosi Zuko Bhobho, who was senselessly killed while off duty on (Thursday) 20 June. The Philippi/Hanover Community Police Forum together with our partners the police extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Const Bhobho. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”
The statement continued that Bhobho served the precinct with bravery and dedication.
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“Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all those who loved him. We cannot imagine the pain and grief they must be feeling and we want them to know that we share their sorrow. May they find strength and comfort in the knowledge that Const Bhobho was a true hero, a shining example of courage and dedication,” writes the CPF.
“We remember Const Bhobho as a kind and compassionate person who always put others before himself.
“His selfless service to the Philippi/Hanover Park Precinct will never be forgotten. His smile, his laughter, and his unwavering commitment to justice will be deeply missed.”
Murder
At only 29 years old, Bhobho was only in active duty for a year before his death.
Capt FC van Wyk, provincial police spokesperson, confirms that a case of murder has been opened for investigation.
“A murder case was opened at Philippi East police on Thursday 20 June. According to reports, police members on patrol were stopped by community members at the corner of Sheffield and Govan Mbeki roads, Luzuko, Philippi-East. They then pointed out a body of an unidentified man that was lying in the field with a gunshot wound to his head,” says Van Wyk.
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While he had been reported missing, Bhobho had no valuables or identification on his person at the time of this discovery.
“It was unknown what transpired and robbery was suspected. Enquiries on the scene were made but with no positive information,” says Van Wyk.
On Saturday 22 June, the deceased was positively identified as Bhobho by his family at Salt River Mortuary.
