Murdered CT Constable Bonginkosi Bhobho hailed as a true hero

CAPE TOWN - A memorial service is being held in Hanover Park to honour a murdered Philippi East police officer. 

Constable Bonginkosi Bhobho was found dead on a field in the area two weeks ago, not long after he was reported missing.

The 29-year-old was off-duty when he was shot in the head and because there were no valuables or identification on his person, robbery is suspected. 

The Philippi/Hanover Park Community Police Forum's Yaseen Johaar said that he was a true hero who served the precinct with bravery and dedication.

"It came to us as a shock when we found out that Constable Bhobho was killed... It's really sad to think that he had his whole career ahead of him. This young police officer had so much hope and aspirations, an amazing person and individual." 

Bhobho's murder came shortly after the death of a 30-year-old constable in Khayelitsha, who was shot during a crime prevention operation. 

Police union POPCRU's Richard Mamabolo said that law enforcement officers had become targeted victims.

"This unfolding national crisis has the potential of threatening the country’s peace and stability as majority of these dedicated men and women are killed on duty while preventing, combating or solving a crime, whilst some are attacked while guarding inmates, traffic and police officers ambushed when conducting patrols, with their official firearms and uniforms being stolen, with the probable intention of committing further crimes."

He added that urgent action was needed.

"We reaffirm our call for government to publicly declare war against cold-blooded criminals by amending current legislations to classify this barbaric act as treasonous, and expect the newly appointed minister to push for legislative amendments in this regard."