SAPS Sergeant Arrested In R124K Fraud Case Involving State Vehicle, Stolen Evidence

In a decisive blow to internal corruption, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State has arrested a serving police sergeant and two accomplices in connection with a R124,000 fraud case.

The arrest is part of Project Fanta Orange, an ongoing initiative aimed at eliminating fraud and corruption within the Thabo Mofutsanyana District.

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The trio was apprehended on 9 April 2025 during a high-impact takedown operation led by the Thabo Mofutsanyana Commercial Crime Investigation Unit (CCIU), with support from the Tactical Response Team (TRT), Crime Intelligence (MODC), and Bethlehem Vispol.

The case originated from a report filed by a local furniture store on 26 March 2024, after detecting suspicious account applications involving forged documents.

Police Sergeant Allegedly Used State Vehicle To Transport Stolen Goods

Shockingly, one of the suspects arrested is a 42-year-old police sergeant stationed at Bohlokong Detectives.

Investigators allege he played a central role by transporting fraudulently obtained furniture using an official SAPS vehicle.

Some of the items were reportedly delivered directly to his home.

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During a subsequent search of the sergeant’s residence, officers uncovered police dockets, buccal swabs, and other exhibits tied to ongoing investigations.

Zero Tolerance For Corruption

Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in the Free State, commended the investigation teams for their swift and thorough action. She issued a firm warning to any members undermining public trust.

She said, “It is deeply disturbing and shameful to discover that a member of our Service was allegedly abusing the trust and power entrusted to him by the people.

“We will not tolerate corruption, especially from within our own ranks. Our commitment is clear: we are cleaning house and restoring integrity to the badge.”

The suspects, a 42-year-old police sergeant, a 46-year-old woman, and a 39-year-old man — will appear in the Bethlehem Magistrate’s Court. SAPS has confirmed that internal disciplinary procedures are also underway.

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