The JMPD Tactical Reaction Unit (TRU) arrested seven SAPS officers on October 22.

The members had allegedly extorted and kidnapped an illegal miner (zama zama) they found with gold-refining materials and gold-bearing soil.

The incident unfolded when the officers reportedly demanded R5 000 from the miner, later increasing it to R30 000.

They allegedly took the victim to a loan facility to secure the payment, but the TRU intervened and made the arrests.

The case was heard in the Booysens Magistrate’s Court on October 30, where the accused applied for bail. They had arrived late to the court due to delays while being transported from Johannesburg Prison.

Defence attorney Nastasja Otrebski represented all seven accused and told the court that the bail applications would be submitted via affidavit.

Magistrate Habib ensured the accused understood that anything mentioned in their affidavits could be used as evidence at trial.

The magistrate also explained that if the accused did not disclose previous charges or convictions, they could face up to two years’ imprisonment.

While each affidavit was read, Otrebski outlined each suspect’s personal details to show that they could be trusted to return to court if granted bail.

Prosecuting Attorney Israel said the State would not oppose bail for all seven.

Habib noted that the affidavits did not provide enough detail about the individuals’ lives to demonstrate unique circumstances for bail. However, because all the accused were police officers and the investigating officer and the State did not oppose bail, he granted bail of R10 000 each.

Habib also set a condition that the accused has no contact with witnesses.

The case returns to court on November 6.

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