North West police detective sergeant arrested for allegedly taking R2,000 bribe - IOL

A 51-year-old police detective is expected to appear in court after allegedly soliciting a bribe from a driver to avoid prosecution in a reckless or negligent driving case.

A North West police detective sergeant has been arrested for allegedly accepting a R2,000 bribe from a driver in exchange for not charging them in a reckless or negligent driving case.

The 51-year-old detective sergeant, attached to Setlagole police station, was arrested on Thursday.

North West police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the arrest followed an investigation by the North West Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit (ACIU).

The unit received information alleging that the officer, who was investigating a reckless or negligent driving case registered at Setlagole police station, had solicited a bribe from one of the drivers involved in the incident in exchange for not charging them.

“It is alleged that the complainant indicated that he could not afford the amount demanded, but would attempt to raise the money.

“He subsequently paid R2,000 in cash and transferred a further amount into the investigating officer's account,” Myburgh said.

She added that the remaining amount was allegedly due to be paid at the end of the month.

Myburgh said the matter was reported to the North West ACIU for further investigation.

After the investigation was concluded, the case docket was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for a decision.

“Upon receipt of the docket and the decision to prosecute, the ACIU, in collaboration with members of the Anti-Gang Unit, proceeded to Setlagole police station, where the officer was arrested at approximately 8.50am on Thursday,” she said.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Atamelang Magistrate's Court on Friday, facing charges of corruption and defeating the ends of justice.

North West Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Arthur Peter Adams reiterated the police’s commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring that officers who abuse their authority are held accountable.

Adams said corruption within the police undermined public trust and compromised the integrity of the criminal justice system.

He said police officers were entrusted with upholding the law, protecting communities and ensuring that justice prevailed.

“Therefore, any officer who uses their position to solicit money or obstruct the course of justice must be held accountable.

“The police will not tolerate corruption within our ranks, and we remain committed to taking decisive action against those who bring the organisation into disrepute,” he said.

Adams also encouraged members of the public to report suspected corruption and misconduct involving police officers, assuring them that such allegations would be investigated.