Police Corruption Scandal Rocks Gauteng Province
Officers Accused of Kidnapping, Extortion, and Abuse of Power
A disturbing case of alleged police misconduct has unfolded in Gauteng, South Africa, with two officers facing serious charges of kidnapping and extortion. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and erodes public trust.
Details of the Kidnapping
Constables Thabiso Pule, Paul Molefe, 32, and Paseka Makena, 33, all members of the Highway Patrol Unit in Springs, are accused of abducting a man they suspected of illegal mining. They then allegedly handed the victim over to a group of Basotho nationals who demanded a ransom for his release.
The initial ransom demand was R2-million, which was progressively reduced to R150,000 and finally to R20,000. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) swiftly arrested the officers, charging them with kidnapping and extortion. Their bail hearing is scheduled for August 14, 2024.
Family Ties and Dismissal
The scandal deepened with the revelation that Paul Molefe is the son of former Ekurhuleni District Commissioner, Major General Zodwa Molefe. Despite this familial connection, both Molefe and Makena were dismissed from the SAPS following disciplinary hearings. The Gauteng Provincial Commissioner is currently finalizing the dismissal decisions.
“The public demands accountability. We need police officers who earn the trust of law-abiding South Africans.”
—Ian Cameron, Chairperson of Parliament’s police portfolio committee
According to the South African Police Service annual report, complaints against police officers increased by 7.4% in the 2022/2023 financial year, indicating a growing trend of misconduct. (SAPS Annual Report 2022/2023)
Wider Issues Within the SAPS
Ian Cameron cautioned that this case is not isolated, pointing to several other officers currently facing criminal charges while still on duty. He cited cases involving a Belhar detective arrested for cocaine possession, a Kuilsriver constable on bail for rape, a Lentegeur warrant officer accused of selling police dockets, and a Cape Town court orderly caught with a large quantity of mandrax tablets.
“These officers pose a danger to public trust and the entire justice system,” Cameron stated, urging the urgent implementation of Section 34 boards to remove criminal officers from their positions. He emphasized that accountability must be consistent and immediate.
The unfolding situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the SAPS to restore public confidence and ensure that those entrusted with upholding the law are held to the highest standards of integrity.
