Corrupt cop busted in Limpopo
A 38-year-old officer from the Driekop police station and 32-year-old woman are expected to appear in court on Monday on charges of corruption, extortion and defeating the ends of justice.
The two were arrested by the Hawks on Friday after they allegedly conspired to extort R15000 from the accomplice’s boyfriend.
"The boyfriend claimed he was summoned to the police station by the Warrant Officer detective,” says Hawks spokesperson Matimba Maluleke.
"On arrival, the detective, who was in the company of the complainant's girlfriend, accused him of rape.
"The man was informed that a case was already opened against him, but that he could pay R15 000 to make it disappear.
"He allegedly paid R4000 on the spot and promised to pay the rest later the same day."
The Hawks subsequently conducted a sting operation which led to the arrest of the woman after she received the remaining money from her boyfriend.
Provincial Hawks head Thobeka Jozi says the officer’s conduct is extremely disappointing.
"It is better to have one honest and loyal police officer than to have troops of corrupt police officers,” says Jozi.
"It is high time the community learns that police stations are there to attend to their safety and security needs and not gambling institutions.”