The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng has opened a departmental case against two officers who were caught on video allegedly soliciting a bribe from a suspect.
The incident reportedly occurred on June 4, 2026, while the officers were deployed at the Wierdabrug policing precinct for Provincial Operation Shanela. According to SAPS management, the officers stopped a suspect riding a bicycle and confiscated the bicycle. They then transported the suspect in a police vehicle to the Wierdapark community park, where they allegedly demanded and accepted money in exchange for his release.
Following the circulation of the video on social media, the implicated officers were identified. A formal departmental case has been opened, and an inquiry has been registered to establish the facts surrounding the incident. SAPS confirmed that all allegations will be thoroughly examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
In light of the incident, SAPS Gauteng management urged the public to collaborate with law enforcement in the fight against police fraud and corruption. While acknowledging the role of social media in raising awareness, the police emphasized that citizens must formally report these matters. Formal reporting allows authorities to obtain statements under oath, which are necessary to build strong, prosecutable cases and ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
Members of the public are encouraged to report police misconduct through the following official channels:
The SAPS Anti-Corruption Hotline: 0800 701 701
The National Service Complaints Centre: 0800 333 177
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID): The independent statutory body established to oversee SAPS.
