The Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit has arrested two police sergeants for alleged kidnapping.
The officers, aged 40 and 49, are attached to the Polokwane Detectives and Crime Prevention Unit.
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They were arrested on Tuesday, 26 May 2026 by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit together with the Tactical Response Team (TRT).
Police said the arrest stems from a 17 July 2024 incident along Matlala Road near Extension 76 under the Westenburg policing area.
It’s alleged the complainant was travelling with two foreign national brothers when they were stopped by police officers who requested asylum documentation from the occupants.
A 17-year-old passenger, who allegedly could not produce valid documents, was then taken by the officers.
The complainant was instructed to follow the police vehicle to Polokwane Police Station. They were later told there was no official record of the minor being detained.
Police said the teenager was later processed at the station on allegations of illegal immigration. Hoever, the case was subsequently withdrawn in court.
After further investigations, warrants of arrest were issued against the two sergeants on charges of kidnapping and common purpose.
Provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe welcomed the arrests.
She said no officer would be shielded from prosecution.
“We remain committed to ensuring accountability within the ranks of the South African Police Service. Any member found to have acted outside the prescripts of the law will be subjected to due legal processes,” said Hadebe.
SAPS provincial spokesman Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the arrests.
He said the service would fully co-operate with the justice system.
“The SAPS in Limpopo notes the arrest of two members attached to Polokwane Police Station.”
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“We welcome any action that ensures accountability within our ranks. No member is above the law,” said Ledwaba.
Police investigations are continuing.
