BLOEMFONTEIN – A well respected member and spokesperson of the South African Police Force in the Free State, Sgt. Mahlomola Peter Kareli (47) passed away on 9 September.
The Provincial Commissioner Lt. Genl Thabang Lesia along with the management of the SAPS said they are deeply saddened Kareli’s passing due to ill health.
“His untimely passing has left the Free State SAPS family deeply saddened. He was a familiar and trusted voice of the organisation, serving as an important link between the police, the media and the communities of the Free State,” Lesia said.
Sgt. Kareli joined the SAPS on 14 July 2008 and served the organisation for more than 18 years. His career included service in various policing environments before he joined the Provincial Communication structures, where he was transferred to join the communication family in 2014.
In a media statement Brig. Thando Mbambo said throughout his years of service, Kareli contributed to the dissemination of important policing information and played a significant role in keeping members of the media and the public informed about police activities, operations and initiatives.
Lesia expressed heartfelt condolences to Kareli’s family, friends, colleagues and all those who worked closely with him.
“Today, we have lost more than a colleague. We have lost a dedicated member of the SAPS family who carried the responsibility of representing our organisation with commitment and professionalism. His voice became synonymous with policing in the Free State, and his absence will be deeply felt by his colleagues, the media fraternity and the communities we serve. We extend our deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time. May they find strength and comfort in knowing that his service to the people of the Free State will be remembered.”
The SAPS in the Free State requests the public to afford the bereaved family the necessary privacy and respect as they come to terms with this loss.
Kareli leaves behind his wife, daughter and son. “He was a family man who lived for his beloved family who he cherished so deeply,” Lesia said.
Further details regarding memorial and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
