In a significant blow to police corruption, the JMPD Tactical Reaction Unit (TRU) arrested seven SAPS officers on October 24 for allegedly extorting and kidnapping an illegal miner (zama zama) found in possession of gold-refining materials and gold-bearing soil.

The incident unfolded when the officers reportedly demanded R5 000 from the miner, later increasing the amount to R30 000.

The officers allegedly took the victim to a loan facility to secure the payment, but the JMPD TRU intervened and arrested them.

Details of the victim’s status and further case developments were not disclosed at the time of reporting.

One of the zama zamas cooperated with the authorities and provided a statement to support the case.

The officers remain in custody at Booysens Police Station, facing charges of extortion and kidnapping.

The case is set to be heard in the Booysens Magistrate’s Court on October 30, when the accused officers are expected to apply for bail.

State prosecutor Israel outlined the charges against the accused, including kidnapping, extortion, and possession of precious metals.

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