Police officer released on R500 bail after handing back confiscated vehicle linked to theft case
A 56-year-old police officer has appeared in court after he was arrested for allegedly defeating the ends of justice by releasing a confiscated vehicle linked to a suspected theft case without following proper procedures.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Warrant Officer Tikishi Gilbert Makofane, stationed at the Ohrigstad police station in the Sekhukhune District, appeared before the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court.
Mafokane was granted R500 bail and is expected to make his next appearance at the Leboeng Magistrate’s Court on 28 October 2025.
Provincial police spokesperson in Limpopo Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the charge stems from an incident that occurred on 15 November 2024, when members of the Ohrigstad SAPS Crime Prevention Unit intercepted a minibus suspected of transporting stolen water pipes.
“The suspects could not provide satisfactory answers about the origin of the water pipes and were arrested,” Ledwaba said.
“The vehicle used in the alleged crime was also confiscated and taken to the police station for processing.”
While officers were still registering the case docket, Makofane allegedly took the keys to the impounded minibus and handed them over to the owner without notifying the investigating officer or completing the required seizure documentation.
“When police later tried to finalise the seizure forms, they discovered that the vehicle was no longer on the premises,” Ledwaba said.
“The matter was immediately referred to the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for investigation.”
Following the investigation, Makofane was arrested on Thursday and charged with defeating the ends of justice.
“The SAPS views allegations of misconduct and corruption by its members in a very serious light,” Ledwaba added.
“No one is above the law, and internal disciplinary processes will also follow.”
Police investigations into the case are continuing.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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