Police Sergeant Allegedly Took Bribe to Secure Woman’s Release from Court

Polokwane – A 44-year-old police sergeant has received a court summons for allegedly facilitating the unauthorized release of a detained female foreign national prior to her deportation.

The allegations suggest that this sergeant, stationed at the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, served as a court orderly during the incident of unlawful escape that occurred on 30 October 2023.

The situation was uncovered when inmates returned to the Northam Police Station post their court appearances.

During a routine inspection, two incoming commanders found that a female detainee, set for deportation, had not been returned to her cell.

Reports indicate that when questioned by authorities, the sergeant claimed he was on his way to the police station but failed to report for duty the following day.

The detained foreign national was subsequently located and re-arrested in 2023.

It is alleged that a significant amount of money exchanged hands for the sergeant’s role in her unlawful release.

The investigation has been handed over to the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for further actions.

After the inquiry, the case file was sent to the Senior Public Prosecutor for evaluation.

Following the prosecutor’s review, the sergeant received his summons on Friday, 3 July 2026.

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

Major-General Jan Scheepers, Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, stated: “This arrest sends a strong message that any officer who breaches the law and compromises our integrity will be held fully accountable.”

“I would like to thank the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for their thorough investigation leading to these charges.”

The sergeant is expected to appear in court on 31 July 2026 to face charges of corruption and aiding and abetting.