Family, friends, colleagues and senior representatives of the SAPS, the Western Cape Police Forum, Correctional Services and the labour sector attended to commemorate Lichakane and his life.
He was deployed to Knysna 10 years ago and was a well-known face in Knysna. He joined the police force in 2004 and was promoted to Sergeant in December 2013. (The SAPS' media release incorrectly indicated that was deployed in Knysna in 2014, as was reported last week.) Lichakane was originally from Virginia in the Free State and he will be buried there on May 24.
At the service, Lichakane's strong character and values were acknowledged. "He was nick-named 'Lawyer' and 'Jakkalas' by colleagues and friends and was well-known for never shying away from an argument or debate. "If Lefadi came to you and he started with, 'If ever', you were sure it was going to take a long time before agreement will be reached," a colleague said.
Patrick Lichakane, brother of the deceased, said the family battled to wipe the tears from their eyes. "We were already in negotiations for a new marriage. It is not only our family that mourns but also the new family who invited them into their home." Patrick Lichakane referred to Samson of the Bible to comfort friends and family. "Please remember, like Samson, while the hair on your hair is growing, God's strength grows in you."
Colonel Atwell Metu, Knysna's station commander, expressed his deep sadness and condolences with the mourners. "This man was never shy of living his authority. Indeed we lament the sudden drying of a fountain of knowledge and experience."
Meth said that Lichakane was "a dedicated crime fighter". He received an award to acknowledge the part he played in Knysna's successful hosting of two international soccer teams during the FIFA World Cup in 2010. "This remains one of the greatest success stories of our beautiful country and Sergeant Lichakane helped make this possible."
"Force number 70282731 is absent today. He served in the South African Police Service for 10-years and 91 days. . . . His voice has gone quiet in the corridors of the Knysna Police Station. He will be sorely missed."
Some friends and colleagues who were prepared to talk about his untimely death said, "He was a man of honour and strength.
This came as a big shock." Another friend said, "Policemen and women sometimes hide behind their uniforms. They do not think they are allowed to show emotion or talk about their pain. We hope Lichakane's death changes this."
Members of the community sand, rang bells and beat drums to bid Lichakane good bye.
A memorial service for Sergeant Lefadi Lord Lichakane (36) was held at the Presbyterian Church in Knysna on Thursday, May 15.
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