FOURIESBURG – A Free State detective has been arrested for the second time this month. The 58-year-old officer, attached to the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit in Fouriesburg, was detained on Friday 28 November by the Bethlehem-based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit.
Acting on intelligence, investigators obtained a search warrant and conducted a thorough search of the suspect’s residence. The operation uncovered South African Police Service exhibit bags containing mobile phones, used buccal samples, unfinalised case dockets, police registers, and ammunition.
“The suspect was immediately arrested and all exhibits were seized for further investigation,” stated Warrant Officer Fikiswa Matoti, police spokesperson.
This marks the second time the officer has been detained within the same month. In an earlier November incident, a search of his residence revealed an unlicensed firearm. He was arrested, appeared in court, and was subsequently released on bail.
The detective is expected to appear before the Bethlehem Magistrates’ Court imminently on charges of illegal possession of ammunition and suspected possession of stolen property.
Major General Mokgadi Bokaba, provincial head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), emphasised the unit’s unwavering stance against police corruption.
“The Hawks remains committed to rooting out criminality within law enforcement and ensuring that those who betray the badge are held accountable,” she said.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by the Hawks to address corruption within police ranks and maintain public trust in law enforcement institutions.
ALSO READ: City calls for expanded policing powers after alarming crime stats
