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 foreign national who was detained prior to her deportation.

The allegations state that this sergeant, who is based at the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, acted as a court orderly during the incident of illegal escape that occurred on 30 October 2023.

The issue was uncovered when inmates returned to the Northam Police Station after their court proceedings.

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

Sources indicate that when questioned, the sergeant claimed he was on his way to the police station but did not report for duty the following day.

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

It is claimed that a significant amount of money was involved in the sergeant’s involvement in her unlawful release.

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

Following the investigation, the case was submitted to the Senior Public Prosecutor for evaluation.

After the prosecutor’s review, the sergeant was served his summons on Friday, 3 July 2026.

He is facing charges of corruption and complicity, 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 threatens our integrity will be held accountable.”

“I want to thank 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 complicity.