Seven members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have been arrested by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Reaction Unit (TRU) on charges of extortion, corruption and kidnapping on Wednesday, October 22.
The arrests stem from an incident involving an alleged illegal miner, known locally as a Zama Zama, who was reportedly found with material believed to be unrefined gold. According to reports, the officers allegedly demanded R5 000 from the man before later increasing their demand to R30 000. They are said to have taken him to a loan facility in an attempt to force him to secure the cash.
The JMPD intervened, arresting the seven officers at the scene.
Gauteng Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni, welcomed the arrests, saying they mark an important step in restoring integrity within the police service.
“I have faith that the Anti-Corruption Unit will conduct a diligent investigation to ensure criminality and corruption are rooted out of the Service,” said Lt-Gen Mthombeni.
The suspects, all attached to the Public Order Police Unit, are being held at Booysens police station and are expected to appear in the Booysens Magistrate’s Court soon. The SAPS Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit is spearheading the investigation.
Meanwhile, the zama zama will face charges for contravening the Precious Metals Act.
The JMPD reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and eliminating corruption, stating that investigations are ongoing and that more details will be shared as they emerge.
Saturday Star