Western Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Sizakhele William Dyantyi has issued a strong warning that corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) will not be tolerated, saying any officer found breaking the law will face prosecution.
The warning follows the arrest of a 25-year-old constable attached to Mitchells Plain SAPS by members of the Western Cape Anti-Corruption Unit on Wednesday, 5 August 2026. The officer faces charges of corruption, kidnapping and intimidation.
According to police, the incident dates back to Wednesday, 22 July 2026, when officers conducted a search for drugs and firearms at a property in Du Toitskloof Street, Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain.
Although no drugs or firearms were found, a man was arrested. Police allege that when the man's family contacted the officers to ask why he had been detained, they were allegedly asked to pay money in exchange for his release.
The family was reportedly only able to raise half of the amount demanded, which the officers allegedly agreed to accept. The conversation was recorded, the payment was made and the man was subsequently released.
The incident was reported to the Western Cape Anti-Corruption Unit, which launched an investigation. After gathering evidence, the case was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions, who authorised charges of corruption, kidnapping and intimidation.
A warrant of arrest was issued by the Mitchells Plain Magistrate's Court, leading to the arrest of one of the officers.
Police said a second member, who is currently in Gauteng, has arranged to hand himself over to authorities on Thursday, 13 August 2026, upon his return.
The arrested constable is expected to appear in the Mitchells Plain Magistrate's Court on Thursday, 6 August 2026.