Man, 20, Arrested In Bluegumbosch For Allegedly Impersonating Police Officer “We Know Him As A Cop”

Residents of Bluegumbosch in Harrismith were left stunned after a man they believed to be a serving police officer was arrested during a law enforcement operation.

“We know him as a police officer stationed in Harrismith, and we were shocked when he was arrested,” said neighbours during the police operation in the area.

The arrest followed an intelligence-driven operation carried out on 10 February 2026 at around 10:00 by members of Phuthaditjhaba Crime Intelligence, with support from Public Order Police. Officers acted on information about a suspect allegedly posing as a police official and unlawfully possessing a firearm.

Intelligence-Driven Operation in Bluegumbosch Leads to Arrest

Police located the suspect at a local tavern before escorting him to his home, where they conducted a search.

During the search, officers recovered several items linked to the South African Police Service (SAPS), including:

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• Police winter jacket
• SAPS field dress trousers
• Constable insignia
• Police socks
• Holster
• Police belt
• Appointment certificate
• Ammunition
• Firearm replica
• Police training modules

Suspect Allegedly Stole Uniform from Police Relative

According to police, the suspect could not provide details of the police station where he claimed to be stationed. He later admitted that he was not a police officer and alleged that he had stolen the uniform from a relative who is a serving police official.

A 20-year-old man was subsequently arrested and charged with possession of suspected stolen property, impersonating a police officer, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

He is expected to appear before the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 12 February 2026.