The Kempton Park SAPS community is in mourning following the passing of Detective Sergeant Tebogo Modika, who died on November 23 after a brief illness. Modika, a committed and hardworking officer, had made a profound impact during her tenure, leaving a legacy of dedication to law enforcement and public safety. Sergeant Dipuo Ditshego, the spokesperson for Kempton Park SAPS, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Modika’s significant contributions to the police force and the community she served.
Modika was particularly recognized for her work in investigating cases of malicious damage to infrastructure. Her relentless efforts led to several convictions, with some offenders receiving sentences of up to 10 years in prison. Her commitment to justice and her drive to make a meaningful difference in the community were evident in her work, and she was often regarded as a model officer among her peers. The tragic loss of Modika has left a deep void in the SAPS, as her colleagues reflected on her promising career that was still in its prime.
A memorial service was held on November 27 at the Maranatha Community Church, where family, friends, and colleagues gathered to honor Modika’s memory. During the service, Colonel Lesetja Manewa, the detective commander of Kempton Park SAPS, praised Modika for her exceptional work ethic. He spoke of her potential to rise to a high-ranking position within the force, a future that now remains unfulfilled. “Her passing has left a void in the organisation,” Manewa remarked, emphasizing the loss not only of a dedicated officer but also of someone with the capability to inspire and lead.
Brigadier Lindani Ndlovu, the station commander of Kempton Park SAPS, also expressed his grief, noting the loss of a bright young talent within the police service. “We were hopeful for her bright future in SAPS, but when God calls someone at such a young age, it leaves us questioning what lies ahead for our organisation,” Ndlovu said, reflecting on the promising career that was tragically cut short. The loss of Modika has had a profound emotional impact on her colleagues, who were inspired by her passion for the job and her unwavering commitment to serving the community.
Modika’s colleagues remembered her as a passionate, dedicated, and professional officer who approached her work with an unmatched level of commitment. Her devotion to justice was not just a career, but a calling, and she was admired for her ability to work tirelessly in the face of adversity. Her loss was not just felt by her colleagues, but by the entire community she worked so hard to protect and serve. The memorial service offered an opportunity for those who knew her to share stories and reflect on the positive influence she had during her time with the SAPS.
In the wake of her passing, words of comfort were offered by Pastor Ntshavheni, who encouraged the family and her colleagues to seek solace and strength from the Lord during this difficult time. Modika was laid to rest in her hometown of Tzaneen, Limpopo, on Saturday, where her family and close friends said their final goodbyes. Her passing marks the end of a promising chapter in the lives of those who knew and worked alongside her, but her legacy of service, dedication, and passion will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have crossed her path.
