The JMPD Tactical Reaction Unit (TRU) arrested seven SAPS officers on October 22, 2025.

These officers had allegedly extorted and kidnapped an illegal miner (zama zama) they found with what is believed to be 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.

They allegedly took him to a loan facility to secure the payment, but the TRU intervened and made the arrests.
The accused policemen appeared at the Booysens Magistrate’s Court again on April 17.

The case was postponed again after the prosecution requested more time, citing an outstanding report from the Forensic Science Laboratory regarding what type of metal was found in the policemen’s possession.
Defence attorney Miss Venter appeared for the accused.

Venter objected to the delay, telling the court that the prosecution was wasting time while the case remained unresolved.

The prosecution confirmed that the ballistics report, required under Section 212, is still outstanding and requested a postponement for further investigation. The outstanding ballistics report and other forensic results are expected to form a critical part of the State’s case.

Magistrate Vele noted that the case needed forensics, specifically regarding the form of metal found in the accused’s possession, before it could proceed.

Magistrate Vele granted the postponement. The case will resume on May 26.

He then indicated that a Section 342A enquiry could be conducted by the defence to request a final postponement.

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The magistrate warned that the upcoming date would be for a final postponement if a 342A is granted, stressing that both the prosecution and defence must adhere to their court directives.

All seven accused in the matter remain out on bail.

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