By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola has welcomed the arrest of three police officers following a robbery of a victim at an Engen garage in Welkom, Free State.
General Masemola has also ensured that internal departmental disciplinary proceedings be expedited.
In pictures that are seen circulating on social media platforms, two men and a woman are seen wearing SAPS bullet proof vests and an SAPS mask. A white polo sedan which was allegedly used by the members can also be seen with flashing blue lights.
Since the incident emerged on 01 July 2024, maximum resources were mobilised and a dedicated team of detectives have been working on the case to trace the suspects.
The suspects were traced to Gauteng where they were arrested by the Welkom Serious and Violent crime unit and the Gauteng Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Investigations unit (FCS) on Saturday, 13 July 2024.
A Preliminary investigation has revealed that on the said date, the trio, two Constable’s and a Sergeant pulled over a vehicle and ordered the man to step out. The man refused and drove to the nearest filling station where the members followed him.
It was during that period when the police officers allegedly grabbed the victim’s cellphone and sped off.
While General Masemola has condemned the behaviour of these members, he has welcomed the arrests of his our own.
“We condemn this behaviour and don’t condone acts of criminality and corruption within our ranks. We will continue to deal decisively with those who do not abide by the SAPS code of conduct without fear or favour,”, said Masemola .
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the SAPS has an anti-corruption unit that deals solely with identifying and removing corrupt law enforcement officers within its ranks and beyond.
“Communities are therefore urged to continue to report suspicious activities to their nearest police station and the Crime Stop Hotline number on 0860010111,” Mathe added.
