POLOKWANE – A female sergeant (43) linked to the Senwabarwana Police Station outside Polokwane has been arrested after being linked to six insurance related murders.

The on-duty policewoman was arrested following a lengthy investigation by Captain Keshi Mabunda on allegations that she fraudulently benefited from funeral, accidental and life police cover from various banks and insurance companies.

According to the investigation, the sergeant began her killing spree in 2019. Her victims were known to her and were from destitute and disadvantaged backgrounds, while some were disabled or mentally challenged.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe explains that the sergeant would take out life policy and funeral cover on the victims’ behalf and she would be the beneficiary.

“She is currently linked to about six insurance related murders and evidence shows she has pocketed at least R10m. Following months of investigation, the investigating team obtained a warrant of arrest and the warrant was executed at the police station where was arrested,” Mathe said.

The national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola welcomed the arrest and says the involvement of their own on such heinous crimes is a disgrace.

“As a police officer you are entrusted with the safety and security of communities. For a police officer entrusted with such a great responsibility to be involved in such acts is an absolute disgrace. She abused her powers by insuring those that trusted her. This must send a strong warning to all involved that the long arm of the law will find you and catch you,“ Masemola said.

The suspect will appear before the Polokwane District Court on six counts of murder and about seventeen cases of fraud on Friday, October 11.