Two Limpopo-based police and a cleaner employed by the South African Police Service (SAPS) have been arrested following a joint investigation led by the Limpopo provincial anti-corruption unit.

The three SAPS employees stationed at Modimolle police station have been charged with theft and defeating the ends of justice.

“The arrests stem from an incident that occurred on 14 July 2025, at around 4:20am on the R101 road, approximately 10 kilometres outside Modimolle in the direction of Polokwane. A delivery truck transporting several pallets of washing powder reportedly lost control and veered off the road, causing some of its cargo to spill onto the roadside,” provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.

While the driver attempted to secure the crash scene, several vehicles stopped, and individuals began looting the washing powder. 

Shortly after, a marked SAPS vehicle arrived with the two police officers. 

“Reports suggest that the  complainant pleaded with them to assist in stopping the looting, but instead, the officers allegedly joined in, loading a significant amount of washing powder into the SAPS vehicle before driving off — leaving the driver behind as looting continued,” said Ledwaba.

The driver managed to gather key information about the incident and the identities of those involved. 

The matter was swiftly reported, prompting an in-depth investigation.

“On Friday, 18 July 2025, the joint team conducted a search operation, which led to the recovery of some of the stolen items at the residence of one of the police officers. The investigation further linked a third SAPS employee — a general cleaner — to the crime,” said Ledwaba.

All three suspects, aged between 49 and 55, are on Monday scheduled to appear before the Modimolle Magistrate’s Court. 

Police investigations are still ongoing, and additional arrests are anticipated.

Meanwhile, the provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has condemned the involvement of SAPS employees in criminal activities.

“It is extremely disheartening when those entrusted with upholding the law violate that trust. Corruption and criminal behaviour within the ranks of the SAPS will not be tolerated. We are committed to ensuring accountability at all levels,” she said.

Police in Limpopo have appealed to community members with further information regarding the looting incident to come forward and report to their nearest police station, or via the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.

jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

IOL News  

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