By Buziwe Nocuze
The 55-year-old officer from Kraaifontein in Cape Town has been released on R5,000 bail following his arrest last Wednesday for alleged extortion and intimidation.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said the case has been postponed until 19 February next year for further investigation.
“He was released on R5,000 bail on the condition that he doesn’t contact the complainant,” said Ntabazalila.
Residents, speaking anonymously, said they weren’t surprised. “We have been complaining about SAPS members who are criminals hiding behind the uniform,” said the resident
“The officer is not the only one extorting money from business people. Some of them visit houses selling alcohol in the early hours of the morning, beating people up and taking the alcohol for themselves.”
Hoping for change, the resident urged shop owners to be brave.
“I wish they wouldn’t be afraid of coming out and reporting the corrupt officers. The officers will only stay away from committing the crime if they get harsher sentences. Until then we will continue hearing stories about them abusing the same community they promise to protect.”
Western Cape SAPS spokesperson, Lieutenant Malcolm Pojie, said: “Preliminary investigation suggests that the officer allegedly received a substantial payment during July 2023 from the owner of a shop in the area in exchange for operating his business without interference.”
Further allegations claim that the officer revisited the owner in October, demanding multiple payments.
The owner, fearing that he might lose his livelihood, reportedly paid an unknown amount of money to the officer to ensure the business stayed open.
Police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile issued a stern warning, emphasising ongoing efforts to fight corruption in SAPS.
Pictured above: Police.
Image source: File
