The memorial service of Sergeant Bafedi Diphofa was held at Evans Church last week.
The sergeant was remembered by friends and family who came out in numbers to celebrate her life on Thursday, March 30.
Diphofa was gunned down on Friday, March 24 in Extension 10, Hlalanikahle whilst on duty.
Brigadier Lindelani Ndlovu, Deputy District Commissioner Sfiso Cele, and former Vosman Station Commander, now Chief of Emalahleni Law Enforcement Delisiwe Motha also attended the memorial service.
Diphofa’s relief commander Captain Gertrude Nonyana said she is horrified at the circumstances in which the sergeant’s life was cut short.
Captain Nonyana recalled the fateful day and mentioned that Diphofa had only left the station for 10 minutes when she received a call that she had been shot.
“It is so painful because I had just spoken to her minutes before the incident. I would like to send my deepest condolences to the Diphofa and Sibanyoni families. I have lost a team player,” said Nonyana.
Brigadier Dhlovu commended Diphofa’s partner, Sydney Sibanyoni for enduring and not leaving his partner’s side, even after the shooting.
“Our hearts are filled with sorrow and we are truly going through a moment of sadness. Sergeant Diphofa was a well-mannered and respectful member who was loyal to the South African Police Service up to her final hours,” said Dhlovu.
Diphofa joined the police on July 13, 2009, and has served for 13 years. On December 1, 2021 she was promoted to sergeant.
In her career as a policewoman, Diphofa had been honoured with a Centenary Medal and was also decorated with a 2010 Soccer World Cup Support medal.
She was a loving partner to Sergeant Mathew Sibanyoni and their two beautiful children.
A state funeral was held on Saturday, April 1 at Emalahleni Civic Centre.
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