13/06/2026
SAPS MOURNS THE PASSING OF MODIMOLLE STATION COMMANDER COLONEL PHUTI SALOME PHOKO
POLOKWANE: The South African Police Service and the broader community of Limpopo mourn the passing of Colonel Phuti Salome Phoko (52), Station Commander of Modimolle Police Station, who passed away on Wednesday, 03 June 2026, following a short illness.
Colonel Phoko dedicated her life to serving and protecting the people of South Africa. She joined the South African Police Service on 08 August 2002 and served with distinction for more than 23 years, rising through the ranks through hard work, commitment, and exemplary leadership.
Her policing journey began as a student constable before being promoted to Constable in 2003, Sergeant in 2011, Warrant Officer in 2016, Captain in 2021, Lieutenant Colonel in 2023, and ultimately Colonel on 01 February 2026. Her promotion to Colonel marked the culmination of a remarkable career built on professionalism, integrity, and dedication to public service.
Throughout her career, Colonel Phoko served at various stations and units, including Tembisa, Polokwane, Lebowakgomo, Mashashane, Morebeng, and Modimolle. She gained extensive experience in Crime Prevention, Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management, forensic investigations, and station management. Her expertise and leadership earned her the respect of colleagues, community members, and stakeholders alike.
A highly qualified police officer, Colonel Phoko obtained a National Diploma in Policing and a B-Tech Degree in Forensic Investigation, complemented by extensive specialised training in crime scene examination, victim empowerment, community policing, domestic violence, forensic DNA evidence recovery, and station management.
Her dedication to policing excellence was recognised through several prestigious awards, including the SAPD Ten-Year Commemoration Medal, SAPS Ten Years Loyal Service Medal, Soccer World Cup 2010 Support Medal, Centenary Medal (1913–2013), and the SAPS Twenty Years Loyal Service Medal.
As Station Commander of Modimolle Police Station, Colonel Phoko demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to crime prevention, community engagement, and the development of her members. She led with compassion, discipline, and professionalism, always placing the needs of the community and the organisation at the centre of her work.
Beyond her uniform, Colonel Phoko was a devoted wife, mentor, leader, and role model whose influence extended far beyond the workplace. She inspired many young police officers through her determination, resilience, and commitment to service.
Her passing leaves a profound void within the South African Police Service, particularly in the Waterberg District and Limpopo Province. Her legacy of selfless service, integrity, and dedication to duty will continue to inspire generations of police officers.
The South African Police Service extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.
*Her funeral Service will be held on Saturday, 13 June 2026 at Zone 1 Seshego*
_May her soul rest in eternal peace. Her service, sacrifice, and contribution to policing will never be forgotten._
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