Durban — After the loss of his wife Captain Johanna Hendrina “Vicky“ Keogh, who was killed by a reckless driver in 2010 while on duty, retired metro cop captain Peter Keogh has dedicated his retirement to ensure children understand the importance of road safety.
He said his wife’s tragic death became a driving force behind his mission to protect the most vulnerable.
Speaking at one of his popular “Laughing Policeman” shows on Thursday at Camelot College in Glenwood, Keogh captivated school children with lessons about road safety, police emergency numbers, stranger danger, and life skills. His unique blend of education and humour has made him a favourite among young audiences, but his message carries a weight born from personal loss.
Keogh told the Daily News that he wants children to be aware of the dangers of the road.
"If my wife, a metro cop, was struck while in uniform, what chance does a child have," he asked.
He said his passion is not just for teaching children, but also for reaching parents whom he believes may unintentionally pass dangerous habits to their kids. Keogh is concerned about adults who text or drink while driving, warning that children easily mimic these behaviours, potentially becoming reckless drivers themselves in the future.
Keogh advocates for stricter penalties for distracted driving, including a six-month licence suspension for texting behind the wheel.
“It’s one of the leading causes of accidents, and we need to take it seriously,” he said.
His work is not limited to schools. Keogh also takes his road safety lessons to old age homes, driven by his belief that both the young and elderly are society’s most vulnerable groups. His teaching approach is warm and engaging, using humour as a tool to connect with his audiences.
Keogh, who served the Metro Police for 43 years, has also discovered a passion for acting, tapping into his natural talent despite having no formal training, appearing in local soaps such as Uzalo, Imbewu the Seed, and an advert for the soccer World Cup in 2010.
“I want to inspire children to believe in their dreams. I never had acting lessons, but because I love it, I am able to do it."
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Daily News