Police Sergeant Allegedly Took Bribe for Woman’s Court Release

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

According to reports, the sergeant, linked to the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, was serving as a court orderly at the time of the incident on 30 October 2023, which enabled the illegal escape.

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

During a standard inspection, two senior officers identified that a female detainee, scheduled for deportation, had not been returned to her holding cell.

Sources indicate that when interrogated, the sergeant asserted he was returning to the police station but failed to report for his shift the following day.

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

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

The matter has been referred to the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for a comprehensive investigation.

After their inquiry, the findings were submitted to the Senior Public Prosecutor for assessment.

Following a review of the case, a summons was issued to the sergeant on Friday, 3 July 2026.

He faces charges of corruption and complicity, with his first court appearance anticipated on 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 stern reminder that any officer who breaches the law and threatens our integrity will face consequences.”

“I applaud the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for their diligent 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.