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 and awaiting deportation.

The claims indicate that this sergeant, who is assigned to the Northam Police Station in Limpopo, acted as a court orderly during the incident of unlawful escape on 30 October 2023.

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

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

Sources indicate that when questioned, the sergeant claimed he was on his way back 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 alleged that a significant amount of money was involved in the sergeant’s participation in her illegal release.

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

Following the inquiry, the details were sent to the Senior Public Prosecutor for evaluation.

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

He is facing allegations of corruption and complicity, with his first 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 breaks the law and threatens our integrity will be held 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 answer to charges of corruption and complicity.