–Staff Writer / Sat, 07 February 2026
The North West police has confirmed the tragic death of a 25-year-old police officer who drowned while on duty during a suspect pursuit in the Phokeng policing area.
Constable Gift Mota, who was attached to the Visible Policing Crime Prevention Unit at Phokeng, died on Friday, 6 February 2026, after entering a dam while chasing a suspect linked to robbery and burglary cases.
According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh, Constable Mota and his colleagues were on patrol when they were approached by a community member who reported having spotted a suspect believed to be involved in several criminal activities.
“The police members accompanied the informant to the Masosobane and Raffredy sections, a bushy area with a nearby dam. Upon seeing the suspect, the members gave chase. The suspect ran into the dam, and during the pursuit Constable Mota entered the water and disappeared from sight,” said Myburgh.
A police diving unit was immediately activated and later recovered the constable’s body from the dam.
An inquest docket has since been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Constable Mota, who was originally from Ermelo in Mpumalanga, had been transferred to the Phokeng policing area in November 2025.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of police in the North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has expressed his deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the fallen officer.
“We have lost a dedicated police officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty while serving and protecting the community. Constable Mota’s bravery and commitment will not be forgotten. The police stand with his family during this painful time and will ensure that they receive the necessary support,” said Naidoo.
The provincial commissioner also urged communities to continue working closely with the police in the fight against crime, while acknowledging the dangers officers face daily in the execution of their duties.
News Junction (Gold Standard)