SASOLBURG – The Fezile Dabi Civic Movement (FDCM) has strongly commended the Free State Police Anti-Corruption Unit following the red-handed arrest of a corrupt local police officer.
This comes after the Free State police spokesperson, Brigadier Thandi Mbambo confirmed Police Anti-Corruption Unit arrested of a 43-year-old Detective Sergeant for extortion and corruption on Friday, 10 July 2026 during a planned undercover entrapment operation that was carried out Sasolburg police station.
“It is alleged that on Sunday, 5 July 2026, the suspect (a detective) visited the 41-year-old complainant’s home in Zamdela looking for him, but he was not home. The detective returned on Monday 6 July 2026, and informed the complainant that a case of assault had been opened against him.
“Instead of processing the matter legally, the detective told the complainant that “there is no case” and suggested they could “work something out” to prevent his arrest. The complainant was coerced into sending R2 000 via electronic funds transfer (EFT),” said Mbambo.
“The extortion escalated on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, when the detective returned and claimed that the prosecutor demanded a further R10 000 to drop the charges. The complainant stated he did not have the funds but promised to make an arrangement.”
The detective was arrested immediately after accepting marked money from the complainant, with the funds recovered in his possession.
Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, strongly condemned the actions, stating that the SAPS has zero tolerance for corruption within its ranks.
”We will not allow the badge to be tarnished by individuals who choose to abuse their authority for personal greed,” said Lieutenant General Lesia.
“This successful operation sends a clear message to all members that corruption will be rooted out without fear or favor. I commend the Anti-Corruption Unit for their swift action. We are fully committed to cleaning up our ranks and restoring public trust in the South African Police Service.”
His Royal Majesty, HRM King Tibisi April Motaung II, the President of the FDCM, issued a profound statement of support after the suspect was caught in a targeted sting operation. He praised the decisive law enforcement action, emphasizing that police corruption undermines the entire justice system.
“The Fezile Dabi Civic Movement firmly believes that those entrusted with enforcing the law must be the ultimate guardians of justice, not the perpetrators of criminality.
“We stand resolutely behind the Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, and the dedicated members of the Anti-Corruption Unit,” said King Motaung II.
“For too long, the vulnerable members of our community, particularly in Zamdela and the broader Fezile Dabi region, have lived under the shadow of fear and institutional abuse.
This operation sends an unequivocal message: the shield of authority will never be permitted to mask personal greed.”
