Two police officers from Bethal were arrested on Wednesday, 06 May 2026, for corruption and extortion.
The officers, a Sergeant and a Constable attached to Bethal Police Station, were arrested following an intelligence-driven operation by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit.
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It is alleged that in January 2025, the police officers demanded money from a businessman who failed to produce a licence for operating a hair salon. The officers are said to have taken some cash from the victim and indicated they would return for more.
The businessman subsequently reported the matter to a member of the Community Policing Forum (CPF), who escalated it to a Senior SAPS member at the Police Station. This led to an investigation and the eventual arrest of the officers.
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The suspects are expected to appear in the Bethal Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 07 May 2026, to face charges of corruption and extortion. The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the arrests. “The alleged actions of these members undermine the oath we took to serve and protect the public. As painful as it is to arrest our own, they must face the consequences of their actions.
“There is no place for rotten elements who betray the badge and the communities we serve. We will continue to root out criminality within our ranks without fear, prejudice, or favour, ” said the General. The SAPS maintains a zero-tolerance approach to corruption within its ranks. Any member found to be involved in criminal conduct will be dealt with decisively and in accordance with the law.
