NELSPRUIT — The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga is mourning the tragic loss of two police constables who died in separate motor vehicle accidents within a six-day period in the Ehlanzeni District.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officers.

The first tragedy occurred on Monday, 25 May 2026, when Constable Helen Motshentshe Mohotlane was involved in a head-on collision at Kanyamazane. Constable Mohotlane, who served as a Physical Fitness Coordinator for the Provincial Human Resource Management and Development Component, was driving a state vehicle on her way to work. She sustained serious injuries and later succumbed to them in the hospital.

Just days later, on Saturday, 30 May 2026, a second fatal incident claimed the life of Constable Sinky Sifiso Sambo in Ncabeni, Mbuzini. At approximately 02:15, Constable Sambo parked a state vehicle to speak with the driver of a private car. A secondary accident occurred at the scene, resulting in fatal injuries to both Constable Sambo and the civilian driver. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Major General Mkhwanazi expressed deep devastation over the rapid loss of two dedicated members.

“The loss of these dedicated officers is a devastating blow to the organisation,” said Mkhwanazi. “They served the country with commitment and courage. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones during this painful time.”

The SAPS Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) Unit has been deployed to the area to provide immediate psycho-social support and counseling services to the grieving families and affected police colleagues.