Free State police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli dies

The Free State police have been left mourning the death of provincial spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Peter Kareli, who died on Wednesday morning after a period of ill health.

Kareli’s death was confirmed by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State.

He was a familiar voice to journalists and communities across the province and served as an important link between the police, the media and the public.

Kareli joined SAPS on 14 July 2008 and served the organisation for more than 18 years. He joined the provincial communication structures in 2014, where he played a key role in communicating policing operations, crime updates and other important information to the public.

The Free State provincial commissioner expressed condolences to Kareli’s wife, daughter, son, family, friends and colleagues.

“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,” the commissioner said.

“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.”

The police described Kareli as a family man who cherished his wife and children.

SAPS has asked the media and public to respect the privacy of his family as they come to terms with his death.

Details of his memorial and funeral arrangements will be announced at a later stage.