POPCRU reacts to arrest of police officer on drug-related charges
The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) in the Western Cape has expressed shock following the arrest of a police sergeant for being in possession of drugs.
The officer, stationed at Woodstock SAPS, was arrested on 19 August 2025 after Public Order Policing (POP) members raided a residence in Zoetendal Street, Ruyterwacht.
POPCRU provincial secretary Mluleki Mbhele said the incident was deeply concerning and urged officers to steer clear of criminal activities.
“This incident is unfortunate and we call on all SAPS members to desist from participating in criminal activities that will lead them to be arrested. The communities put trust in the police for their protection,” the union said in a statement.
Mbhele added that the matter was now sub judice: “POPCRU as a union respects this process and therefore will not comment further until all legal processes are exhausted.”
The union also noted the recent introduction of vetting and lifestyle audits of police officers, which require members in certain functions, particularly those in senior management, to obtain security clearance.
“As the union, we will ensure that we monitor the implementation of this process and for it not to be used as a tool to victimise employees within SAPS,” he said.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie confirmed details of the late-night operation.
“The vigilance of members attached to Public Order Policing, who acted on information received led them to a residence in Zoetendal Street, Ruyterwacht, on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, at about 11pm where they seized a small amount of drugs and arrested a couple found in possession thereof,” said Pojie.
Upon searching the premises, officers recovered 255 mandrax tablets, small quantities of cocaine, tik, crunched mandrax and dagga, as well as an undisclosed amount of cash believed to be the proceeds of crime. They also found three rounds of 9mm ammunition.
Both suspects were arrested, and the seized substances were booked as evidence.
“They are expected to appear in the Goodwood Magistrates’ Court on charges related to dealing in drugs and the unlawful possession of ammunition. A disciplinary investigation has been initiated against the female, who is a police official stationed at Woodstock SAPS,” Pojie said.
mandilakhe.tshwete@inl.co.za