South African police probe mysterious deaths of 3 missing officers found in river

South African authorities are investigating the deaths of three police officers whose bodies were discovered in the Hennops River, six days after they were reported missing.

The officers, Boipelo Senoge (20), Cebekhulu Linda (24), and Keamogetswe Buys (30), were last seen leaving a petrol station near Johannesburg last Wednesday.

The grim discovery was made by police divers approximately 70 kilometres (43 miles) from where the trio was last spotted. Their remains were found alongside two other unidentified bodies, raising further questions about the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Initially treated as a case of possible hijacking and kidnapping, the police have since shifted to a broader investigation. Speaking on Tuesday, police officials confirmed they are not ruling out any possibilities but cautioned that it was too early to determine whether the deaths were accidental or the result of foul play.

“The bodies were found in a section of the river known for strong currents and difficult terrain,” said a police spokesperson. “We are continuing with a forensic investigation and awaiting autopsy results.”

The sudden disappearance and tragic deaths have shocked communities and triggered widespread calls for answers. All three officers were relatively new to the force and had reportedly been off duty at the time they went missing.

The identities and possible connection of the two other individuals found in the river have yet to be confirmed.

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward, as they piece together what led the five to end up in the Hennops River.

Authorities have not released further details but say they are pursuing “all leads” in the case.