In loving memory of a dedicated detective

Douglasdale Police Station recently hosted a memorial service in honour of detective constable Thabo Selekedi, who tragically died in a car accident on 28 March.

Speaking at the service, Douglasdale Police Station’s acting station commander, Colonel Happy Xaba, urged attendees not to be sad, but rather to rejoice as they were celebrating the life of a hero.

Colleagues, friends and family members, as well as members of the Douglasdale Community Policing Forum and the South African Police Unit, came in their numbers to pay their last respects to the fallen police officer.

Colonel Sithembile Mokoena said, “He was a father, a brother, husband and a dedicated young man. Thabo served this organisation with everything that he had – I even once [jokingly] asked him if he loved his wife as much as he loved his job.

“His work and what he has done for this organisation outweighs what many have done for the police.”

Douglasdale Police Station commander, Brigadier Lettie Hugo explained that Selekedi joined the South African Police Unit in 2009 and was transferred to the Douglasdale Police Station in 2010. Within only four months of serving, Selekedi was promoted to the detective unit.

“He served the community with dedication, pride and integrity. I trusted him with my whole heart. Selekedi was an outstanding police officer and it was clear that being in the police force was more than just a job but a calling for him,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the Douglasdale Community Policing Forum, Jean Berdou said, “We thank the Lord for the time he gave us with Thabo, and we are grateful as a community for all that he has done.”

Berdou confirmed that the details of the funeral service would be made known once they were finalised.