Renowned detective, Piet Byleveld (67) has died at Life Wilgehuewel Hospital.
According to reports, the retired police detective, died from stage four lung cancer on 24 May.
News24 reported doctors stopped his treatment on 22 May after he had been kept sedated since 21 May.
Byleveld is celebrated as putting away some of South Africa’s most wanted criminals. He retired in 2010, after 30 years of service.
According to EWN, “He was the longest serving member of the notorious Brixton murder and robbery unit and was honoured by the International Police Association, the FBI and Scotland Yard for his achievements.”
Messages of condolence have appeared on social media under #PietByleveld.
https://twitter.com/dumikeuti/status/867343943167561728
One of SA's top investigators has passed away. RIP #PietByleveld pic.twitter.com/6JV6hrvZTu
— SAcrimefighters. ???????? (@SAcrimefighters) May 24, 2017
https://twitter.com/KeemetsweMore/status/866697492024393729
Tht moment wen u waiting for #ANC to recall#Zuma then #pietbyleveld dies????????rest in peace topcop!!! ???????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/wFGX0ucog0
— #LiveBeyondCondition (@Milly_Mulelu) May 24, 2017
@eNCA Rest In Peace my #pietbyleveld
— Bacon Varkie (@makadijoniza) May 24, 2017