VANDERBIJLPARK.- Five police officers from the Vanderbijlpark Task Team are preparing to face court again on Monday (July 13) following allegations that they tried to extort a massive bribe from a local businessman.

The accused, Sergeants Johannes Thakhisi, Ntombeko Seya, Mpho Molatedi, Nhlanhla Sithole, and Tlokotsi Kganya, made their first appearance in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on July 7. During the brief hearing, the case was pushed back to next week to allow disclosure of the docket.

The upcoming court date marks a crucial step in a long-running investigation that dates back to October 2024. Prosecutors allege that the five officers raided the Oreo Supermarket under the pretence of searching for illegal cigarettes. Once inside, they allegedly demanded a R100 000 bribe from the shop owner to prevent his arrest.

Although negotiations through a third party brought the alleged demand down to R25 000, the terrified business owner had already contacted the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit.

Undercover agents quickly set up a sting operation to catch the officers red-handed, but the suspects never showed up to collect the cash due to sudden operational delays.

The police officers now face a serious legal battle on Monday because the Hawks refused to let the matter drop. When the shop owner reported further threats and intimidation from the officers, investigators intensified their probe.

After months of gathering evidence, the Director of Public Prosecutions officially approved the charges, and the five officers were served with court summonses last month.

The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed that Monday’s appearance will focus on the disclosure of the investigation files, which will signal how soon the state intends to push for a full trial.

Meanwhile, the Hawks have reiterated that corruption within the police force will not be tolerated.

“The Hawks remain committed to investigating corruption without fear or favour. Every allegation is thoroughly investigated, regardless of the position held by those implicated. We encourage members of the public to report incidents of corruption, as information from whistleblowers plays a vital role in ensuring accountability and protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system,” said Hawks Gauteng spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Granville Meyer.