Free State police constable allegedly strangled by boyfriend, found dead at pool

The body of a 32-year-old female police constable was found lying near the Reitz swimming pool.

THE CONSTABLE PHONED FRIEND EARLIER AND SAID HER BOYFRIEND WAS ASSAULTING HER

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele, the constable called her colleagues in the early hours of Saturday, 21 August 2021, at about 02:15, seeking assistance, alleging that her boyfriend was assaulting her.

“The two police constables who were off duty with a sergeant who was on duty at a time went to search for her.

“At about 06:00, her body was found lying behind the wall near a swimming pool in Reitz. It is suspected that she was strangled to death.”

Makhele said the 31-year-old boyfriend was arrested hours later.

“On Saturday, 21 August 2021 at about 06:00, the police in Reitz arrested a 31-year-old man from Petsana in Reitz for the allegedly murder of a female police constable (32) who was stationed at Reitz police station, whose body was found lying near Reitz swimming pool.”

He said the constable and the suspect were in a relationship but not staying together.

ALSO READ: Man stabbed to death with a broken beer bottle during argument with friend

“The boyfriend was traced and arrested in Petsana, Reitz. He is expected to appear before the Reitz Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 23 August 2021 on the charge of murder.”

A post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death.

He said the name of the deceased would only be released once the family has been notified.

“The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane expressed shock and relays a message of condolences to the family and colleagues.”

“It saddens us as Management that the life of such a young and upcoming member had to be ended so senseless, especially during this month when we are supposed to be celebrating strides made by women in this country. We encourage our members to utilize our Employees Health and Wellness services, should they encounter any challenges in their relationships”, she concluded.

ALSO READ: HORRIFIC: 8-year-old boy brutally killed in fight between his mother and her boyfriend