Killed Metro police officers laid to rest

The two female Metro police officers killed on Witkoppen Road on 29 January were remembered during a special wreath-laying ceremony and memorial service last week.

The ceremony was held on Witkoppen Road on the morning of 1 February.

The two officers, Winnie Mokgolo (35) and Sophie Ngoasheng (45) were part of a Metro roadblock on Witkoppen Road at about 9pm on 29 January when a motorist in a Toyota Hilux ploughed into the officers, as well as a BMW, Hyundai and a Porsche parked at the scene. Mokgolo and Ngoasheng were declared dead at the scene and several other people were taken to hospital.

“My condolences go out to my colleagues as well as the officer’s families,” said Constable Peter Dixon, a Honeydew Cluster reservist who was present for the ceremony. “Police work is hard work with long hours, and the only reward is the chance to serve our citizens.”

Hundreds turned out for the ceremony and Witkoppen Road was closed off to traffic for the duration of the ceremony. Among the attendees were Metro police officers, members of the Emergency Medical Services, MMC for Safety Michael Sun, members of the press and the friends and loved ones of the two women who were given seats of honour from which to watch the proceedings.

“I work closely was Metro police, and they are a vital part of the team working towards fixing Joburg,” explained ward councillor Candice James who was also in attendance.

“Residents need to understand that the work that the Metro police do is a tough job. I’d also like to thank the families of the officers, who allowed them to serve their city. I’m just so sorry it’s ended this way.”

The chaplain who led the service spent several minutes erecting two metal crosses in honour of the lost officers as he spoke about the pain of their loss. Then it was time for the wreath-laying. Michael Sun, MMC for Safety, was the first person to lay a wreath at the crosses and spent a few moments in prayer. He was followed by a number of other Metro and City officials before other Metro police members had their turn.

These officers approached the crosses in groups of two or three, and more than one group saluted their fallen colleagues before moving over for the next group. Loved ones of Mokgolo and Ngoasheng were some of the last to lay flowers, with tears and heads bowed in prayers.

“Today has been a very emotional day,” said Pauline Buyeye, sister to officer Ngoasheng. “Finding closure after her passing is going to take time.”

After the ceremony concluded, participants were invited to the memorial service for the two officers which was held at the Metro Training Academy in Stafford near Rosettenville in the afternoon. This gathering was attended by Joburg Executive Mayor Herman Mashaba and chief of police David Thembe.

According to Sun, the driver of the Toyota Hilux has been detained by Sandton police and has had blood samples taken for testing. It is believed that he was drunk at the time of the incident.

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