VEREENIGING – Eleven police officers accused of confiscating liquor worth R600 000, as well as cash to the amount of R700 000 from a liquor store made a brief appearance at the Vereeniging Regional Court on March 6. The officers are facing charges including corruption and extortion, theft, defeating the administration of justice, and malicious damage to property.
Suspects are from Sedibeng District, Evaton SAPS, Meyerton SAPS, and the Gauteng Highway Patrol.
The arrest follows an incident that transpired where a Chinese national and his father were stopped along Neethling Street in Meyerton by officers in an unmarked vehicle.
The complainant was accused of unlawfully selling liquor during the lockdown. His vehicle was searched but no illegal items were found.
According to the complainant, the officers took him to his liquor store, where additional officers joined them.
Police reportedly conducted a search of the premises, confiscating liquor as well as cash.
The officers also allegedly destroyed video camera equipment. In response to the ongoing matter, police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo said the SAPS would continue to bring corrupt officials to book.
“Our members who are found on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with decisively and accordingly without any prejudice.”
The officers are due to appear in court again on April 24 pending further investigation.