Two police members attached to Polokwane SAPS will appear in the local magistrate’s court today after being arrested in connection with a kidnapping and common purpose case linked to an incident that took place in 2024.

According Polokwane Review, Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba says members of the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit, assisted by the Tactical Response Team in Limpopo, arrested the two police sergeants yesterday (May 26).

The officers, aged 40 and 49, are attached to the Polokwane Crime Prevention and detectives units, respectively.

According to police, the arrests relate to an incident reported to Westenburg Police Station and alleged to have occurred on July 17, 2024, along Matlala Road near Extension 76 in the Westenburg policing area.

The incident

It is alleged that the complainant was travelling with two brothers, both foreign nationals, when their vehicle was stopped by police officers who requested asylum documentation.

Police say a 17-year-old passenger who allegedly did not have valid documentation was taken by officers, while the complainant was instructed to follow them to Polokwane Police Station.

However, upon arrival at the station, the complainant was allegedly informed that there was no record indicating the minor had been detained.

According to police, the teenager was later brought to Polokwane SAPS and detained on allegations related to illegal immigration, but the matter was later withdrawn in court.

Following further investigation and internal processes, warrants of arrest were issued against the two police officials on charges of kidnapping and common purpose.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe welcomes the arrests and says accountability within the police service remains a priority.

“We remain committed to ensuring accountability within the ranks of the South African Police Service. Any member found to have acted outside the prescripts of the law will be subjected to due legal processes,” Hadebe adds.

Police investigations are continuing.

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