Police Sergeant Charged with Accepting Bribe for Woman’s Court Release

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

As per the allegations, this sergeant, who serves at the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, acted as a court orderly during the incident of the unlawful escape that occurred on 30 October 2023.

The issue was uncovered when inmates were returned to the Northam Police Station following their court hearings.

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

According to reports, when questioned, the sergeant claimed he was on his way to the police station but didn’t report for duty the following day.

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

It is alleged that a significant amount of money exchanged hands due to the sergeant’s involvement in her illegal release.

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

Post-investigation, the case file was presented to the Senior Public Prosecutor for evaluation.

After the prosecutor’s review, the sergeant was issued 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 clear message that any officer who breaks the law and undermines our integrity will be held accountable.”

“I wish to express my appreciation to the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for their thorough investigation that led to these charges.”

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