HEARTBREAKING LOSS: ARS security officer shot and killed

Rustenburg – What is the true value of a life? Does the answer lie in the eyes of the beholder? On Saturday morning, 18 January 2024, the life of ARS security officer Jabu Lingwatie was taken in an instant, leaving behind a question that lingers in the hearts of all who knew him: what was his life worth? 

To his killer, in that brief moment, he was worth nothing. But to his employer, to his family, and to his colleagues, he was worth everything.

Lingwatie was shot while preparing to do his job – a routine patrol of empty houses on Napoleon Street in Rustenburg North. As he stepped out of his company vehicle, the killer made a decision, and in that split second, a life was ended. 

Wimpie Nienaber, CEO of ARS Security, was on the scene and shared his grief: “It is a great tragedy what had happened. Our deepest and sincerest condolences to the family of our officer. We miss you, Jabu Lingwatie.” He went on to describe the officer as a brilliant reaction officer, quick-witted, and always friendly. “He was a person who brought light to every situation, and his loss leaves a huge void in our hearts.”

The funeral for Officer Lingwatie will take place in Mahikeng, where his family and loved ones will say their final goodbyes.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the officer’s firearm was stolen during the attack. When police arrived at the scene, they found Lingwatie’s white Datsun Go parked in front of a gate, with the 43-year-old officer fatally shot in the neck, lying in a pool of blood. His life was taken in an instant, but the pain of that loss will echo for a lifetime.

The police have called on anyone with information to come forward and help bring those responsible to justice. Tips can be shared confidentially with the Tlhabane Police Station or through the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.

Please, be safe, and always be vigilant. The value of a life is immeasurable, and we must all do our part to protect each other.