Ten police officers from Gauteng, six from the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) and four from the South African Police Service (SAPS) at Tsakane police station, have been arrested on charges of theft and corruption.
The group was taken into custody on Monday at the Edenvale police station by investigators from the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), following an in-depth probe into dodgy dealings involving confiscated goods.
The officers are accused of seizing cigarettes valued at R150 000, but only booking in the cheaper brands while allegedly pocketing the more expensive stock. They are also accused of stealing R35 000 in cash and failing to book in three packs of Panado, which are reportedly worth nearly R5 000.
The arrests come as the SAPS continues to face increasing scrutiny over corruption within its ranks, particularly among officers who exploit their authority for personal gain.
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At this stage, it is unclear if more arrests are expected or whether the officers have appeared in court. IPID has not yet released an official statement regarding the matter.
This bust has reignited concerns about integrity and accountability in law enforcement, especially when the very people meant to uphold the law are accused of breaking it for profit.
The investigation is ongoing.
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