The South African Police service has reported of an incident that involved four of their own, the officers have been alleged to have carried out corruption and armed robbery.
The incidents occurred on the 29th of April 2020 in East London and arrests were made on the 3rd of May 2020.
Brig Tembinkosi Kinana said during an investigation it has been found that the four officers allegedly entered a business premise in full uniform, they then handcuffed the owner while they searched the building. The officers later allegedly detained the owner based on having large amounts of money on site.
The officers allegedly made attempts to extort money out of the owner and in return, he will be freed from detention.
Later that day an armed robbery was carried out on the same business by eight unknown males, it has been reported that three of them were wearing police uniforms.
Cash was allegedly taken from the premises during the robbery, before parting with the money it has been said that they threatened to arrest the owner for money laundering.
“In the early hours of Sunday the 03 May 2020, the Anti-Corruption Team in concert with DPCI conducted an operation which included searches in the houses of the suspects. About four (4) suspects were interrogated and in the process, a sum of R10 000 cash including their cellphones were seized as part of the ongoing investigations.” said Brig Tembinkosi Kinana
Lieutenant General Ntshinga responded to the incident saying “The system is ready to flush-out all those who render themselves irrelevant in our calling to serve and protect our communities with dignity, professionalism and ethical conduct. The SAPS is not a habitat for criminal elements masquerading as loyal police officials. Therefore, the long arm of the law must take its course. We are not apologetic about our stand in this regard.”
All four arrested suspects have been charged with Aggravated Robberies, Corruption, Kidnapping and Defeating the ends of Justice.
“They appeared in the East London Magistrate Court on 04 May 2020, and are appearing again tomorrow 05 May 2020 for a formal bail hearing. Investigation continues and more arrests are expected.” said Brig BTembinkosi Kinana
