The South African Police Service in Gauteng has moved swiftly to institute disciplinary action against a police official implicated in an alleged bribery incident that has drawn significant public attention.
The response follows the circulation of a video on social media platforms, particularly Facebook, showing a uniformed officer allegedly returning money to a member of the public after a suspected bribery exchange. The footage has raised serious concerns about conduct within the ranks of law enforcement.
SAPS management has confirmed that the officer featured in the video has been identified. Immediate disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, while a formal departmental investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The organisation has reiterated its zero tolerance stance on corruption, emphasising that the acceptance, solicitation or facilitation of a bribe constitutes a criminal offence and a serious breach of the SAPS Code of Conduct.
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni has strongly condemned the alleged conduct, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to integrity and accountability.
“The South African Police Service will not tolerate corruption in any form. Members who abuse their authority, compromise their integrity, or betray the trust placed in them by the public will be dealt with decisively. We are committed to ensuring that every allegation of corruption is thoroughly investigated and that appropriate disciplinary and criminal action is taken where warranted. Our communities deserve professional, ethical and accountable policing, and we remain steadfast in protecting the integrity of the organisation,” said Lieutenant General Mthombeni.
All SAPS members are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, in full compliance with the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the SAPS Code of Conduct, and all relevant legislative and policy frameworks.
Members of the public have been urged not to engage in corrupt activities by offering bribes, and to report any allegations of corruption or extortion involving SAPS officials through established reporting channels. These include the SAPS Anti Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701, the National Complaints Service Centre on 0800 333 177, the Corruption Watch WhatsApp line on 072 013 5569, the Gauteng Service Complaints standby line on 082 442 2000, and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate.
SAPS has reaffirmed its commitment to rooting out corruption within its ranks, ensuring accountability, and maintaining public confidence in policing across Gauteng.
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