Police Sergeant Accused of Accepting Bribe for Woman’s Release from Court

Polokwane – A 44-year-old police sergeant is scheduled to appear in court for allegedly facilitating the unauthorized release of a foreign national who was in custody and awaiting deportation.

According to sources, the sergeant, associated with the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, was serving as a court orderly during the incident that led to the unlawful escape on 30 October 2023.

The situation came to light when inmates returned to the Northam Police Station following their court appearances.

During a routine check, two senior officers discovered that a female detainee, set to be deported, had not been returned to her holding cell.

Reports indicate that when questioned, the sergeant asserted he was returning to the police station but failed to report for duty the next day.

The foreign national was eventually found and re-arrested later in 2023.

It is alleged that a substantial sum of money was involved in the sergeant’s actions that led to her unlawful release.

The case has been referred to the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for further investigation.

Following their inquiry, the findings were sent to the Senior Public Prosecutor for assessment.

After reviewing the case, the sergeant received his summons on Friday, 3 July 2026.

He faces charges of corruption and complicity, with his first court appearance set for 31 July 2026 at the Northam Magistrate’s Court.

Major-General Jan Scheepers, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, stated: “This arrest serves as a clear warning that any officer who breaks the law and undermines our integrity will be held accountable.”

“I commend the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for their thorough investigation that resulted in these charges.”

The sergeant is expected to appear in court on 31 July 2026 to address the charges of corruption and complicity.