Emotional farewell to Hawks spokesperson Maluleke

By Thembi Siaga and Silas Nduvheni

The Limpopo community came together to bid farewell to a respected figure, Lt-Col Matimba Maluleke, the spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), on Saturday, 16 March. His funeral service took place at his home in Ribungwani and proceeded to the Rivoningo Assemblies of God Church.

Maluleke (39) died on Friday, 8 March, in hospital after a short illness and was buried at the Ribungwani graveyard, with scores of mourners, including his family, friends, and colleagues, in attendance. Among the attendees were dignitaries such as the provincial commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe, and members of the Hawks.

His untimely departure left many grappling with feelings of sadness and loss as they reflected on the significant contributions he had made during his tenure as the Hawks’ spokesperson. Speaking to Limpopo Mirror, the deceased’s father, Mr Elias Maluleke, said his son had passed away after experiencing a severe headache for two days, leaving behind his wife and daughter.

“He was my first boy, who was obedient and would help each and everyone in the family. We surely miss him for the impact he has left us with. He was even assisting the Rivoni School for the Blind. While he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit lives on in the hearts and minds of those whose lives he touched,” he said.

Mr Rhulani Maluleke, the younger brother of Lt-Col Maluleke, said that his elder brother had been born and raised in the rural village of Ribungwani and, after completing his Grade 12, he had then studied for his degree in media studies at the University of Limpopo. He described him as a mediator for the family, a very neutral person who never took sides and added that the death had left a void that would be difficult to fill.

He said Maluleke had joined the South African Police Services in 2006. Due to his hard work, he was promoted to the rank of captain in 2016. Before Matimba became the Hawks’ provincial spokesperson, he had worked at the Malamulele, Seshego, Hoopdal, and Mankweng police stations.

Colleagues recalled his unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and integrity, noting that he had always gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to his community. During the emotionally charged farewell service, heartfelt tributes and eulogies painted a vivid portrait of a man who had touched the lives of all who knew him.

The provincial head of the Hawks, Maj-Gen (Adv) Gopz Govender, said Maluleke had been a loyal, disciplined, and energetic communication officer who had been dedicated to his job. “He had a very good working relationship with his colleagues, managers, and all stakeholders. We thank the media houses for the conducive and productive relationship they shared with him and wish to express our desire to continue the good working relationship we have with them,” said Govender.

Date:21 March 2024

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