A 25-year-old police officer tragically drowned during a robbery suspect pursuit in Phokeng, North West Province. Constable Gift Mota, a member of the Visible Policing Crime Prevention Unit, lost his life while protecting the community. Authorities have recovered his body and opened an inquest to investigate the circumstances.
This incident highlights the dangers police officers face daily while responding to crime and engaging with local communities.
Phokeng Police Officer Drowns During Robbery Suspect Chase
Constable Gift Mota was on patrol with colleagues when a community member reported seeing a suspect involved in robbery and burglary in the Phokeng area. The officers followed the lead to the Masosobane and Raffredy sections, a bushy area near a dam.
When the suspect fled into the water, Constable Mota entered the dam in pursuit. Tragically, he disappeared while swimming, and a diving unit later recovered his body. This marks a rare and heartbreaking police officer drowning incident in North West Province.
North West Police Confirm Officer Death and Investigation
The North West Provincial Police confirmed Constable Mota’s death, describing him as a dedicated officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo expressed his condolences, stating:
“Constable Mota’s bravery and commitment will not be forgotten. The police stand with his family during this painful time and will ensure they receive the necessary support.”
Authorities have opened an inquest docket to investigate the drowning and review police procedures during high-risk pursuits in Phokeng.
Who Was Constable Gift Mota: Background and Police Service
Constable Mota, originally from Ermelo in Mpumalanga, had been transferred to Phokeng in November 2025. Colleagues remember him as a committed and hardworking officer devoted to protecting the community.
His death emphasizes the daily risks police officers face in South Africa while responding to crime, particularly during active robbery and burglary incidents. Cases involving police officer deaths in the line of duty are rare but highly significant in local law enforcement reporting.
Community Reacts to Phokeng Police Officer’s Drowning
Residents of Phokeng expressed shock and sorrow at the news of Constable Mota’s death. One eyewitness shared:
“It was terrifying to see what happened. He was just trying to protect us.”
Social media and local news outlets reflected widespread grief, highlighting public concern over safety in the North West and support for police officers. The incident has sparked discussions about community involvement in crime prevention and the recognition of police bravery.
Police Inquest and Safety Measures in North West Province
Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with the ongoing inquest and provide any information relevant to the case. The investigation will examine the circumstances of Constable Mota’s drowning and assess safety protocols for officers pursuing suspects near water bodies.
The North West police have reinforced calls for continued community engagement in crime prevention while acknowledging the inherent dangers of police patrols and high-risk interventions.
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