Torched body is that of cop, tests show

Published Jan 24, 2013

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Pretoria -

DNA results have confirmed that the burnt body found in Ga-Matlala village in Limpopo last month was that of Tshwane Metro Police officer Constable Mable Dimakatso Peete.

Peete went missing last year in a case that shocked her relatives, with her boyfriend being arrested on suspicion of murder.

Her body was found in Limpopo after the boyfriend allegedly confessed to killing her and burning her body. He then pointed out where the remains were.

Police could not confirm whether the remains were indeed those of Peete, until on Wednesday when the DNA results were finally made available.

Metro police chief Steven Ngubeni said the results received on Wednesday morning confirmed that the body was that of Peete.

“We are relieved that there is now confirmation and the family can now have some closure.

“This will also help to fast-track the court process and ensure that justice is served.

“We really appreciate the work done by the police, because the suspect has been arrested and is in custody,” said Ngubeni.

The metro police had lost an important member of the team and all officers would be informed about the DNA results, he said.

Several Gauteng ANC Women’s League members arrived at the Peete family’s home in Soshanguve after the results were released to convey their condolences.

Women’s league member Jacqui Mofokeng said they were deeply hurt by Peete’s death, which was reminiscent of the death of Constable Frances Rasuge.

Rasuge went missing in 2004 and her remains were only found last year despite her boyfriend William Nkuna having already been convicted of her murder.

“We hope that our justice system will be very harsh on whoever is responsible for Peete’s death,” said Mofokeng.

“We would like the Peete family to know that we are here to support them.

“With the results confirming that it was indeed her body, the family can now give her a proper send-off and will be able to move on.”

Mofokeng said she found it very disturbing that a woman could be killed and her body moved to another province without anybody noticing.

“Our justice system needs to raise the bar in terms of protecting women. It needs to make sure that anybody taking advantage of the vulnerable groups is dealt with,” said Mofokeng.

Family representative Pastor Peter Mjokane thanked the police for the work they had done to recover Peete’s body.

He said it had been a painful period for the family.

“We also thank the metro police that have lost a member of their team. Though we are hurt, we are grateful for the support that has been given to the family,” said Mjokane.

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