Police Sergeant Allegedly Accepted Bribe for Woman’s Court Release

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, affiliated with the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, was serving as a court orderly when the incident occurred on 30 October 2023, leading to the unlawful escape.

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

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

Reports indicate that when questioned, the sergeant stated 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 contributed to her illegal release.

The case has been forwarded to the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for an in-depth investigation.

After their investigation, the findings were submitted to the Senior Public Prosecutor for review.

Following an analysis of the case, the sergeant received a 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 breaches the law and undermines our integrity will be held accountable.”

“I applaud the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for their diligent investigation that led to these charges.”

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