A sergeant stationed at Nelspruit Police Station resigned after being arrested for allegedly demanding and accepting a bottle of whisky worth R450 as a bribe from a witness.

Rhulani Solomon Malinde briefly appeared in the Nelspruit Regional Court on Friday, February 13, facing several counts of extortion and corruption.

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The matter was postponed to March 20 for trial, with Malinde remaining out on warning, pending his next court appearance.

The victims allegedly gave Malinde the whisky and the money, but approached the police to report the matter, leading to his subsequent arrest and resignation from SAPS.

Mpumalanga acting police commissioner Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi told Lowvelder that he was aware of the incident.

“SAPS maintains a firm zero-tolerance stance against corruption and any conduct that undermines the rule of law or public confidence in policing. Such behaviour is inconsistent with the ethical standards, values and code of conduct expected of all members of the service,” he said.

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“As the matter is currently before the court, SAPS will refrain from commenting on the merits of the case and will respect the judicial process.”

He added that the police service remained committed to accountability, integrity and professional policing.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report any alleged misconduct involving police officials to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, which is mandated to conduct independent investigations,” concluded Mkhwanazi.