By: Natasha Archary
Two South African Police Service (SAPS) officers have been arrested and charged for kidnapping and defeating the administration of justice.
Sergeant Isaac Mathe Mokalolise (39) from Sebokeng and Constable Phumlani Dlamini (30) from Meyerton were granted R5 000 bail at the Khutsong Magistrates Court.
The two officers together with two other accomplices, who have not been found yet are accused of using a state vehicle to lure the victim to the police station with them under false pretenses.
“It is alleged that on 13 March 2024, the two together with two other accomplices who are not yet found, went to the complainant’s house using a state vehicle. Upon their arrival, they told the complainant that they had exhibits that belonged to him at a police station and that he should go with them.
The complainant then informed the officers that he did not report anything missing. They insisted, and the complainant obliged because he believed they were police officers after being shown their service cards.
While driving, they turned in the opposite direction instead of driving towards the police station. When the complainant enquired, it was alleged that the two other accomplices pointed him with a firearm. While still on the road the complainant saw his brother’s car driving past, which prompted him to scram.
His brother saw him and followed the car driven by the police officers and managed to stop it. The two accomplices escaped and fled the scene. An off-duty police officer who saw the commotion at the scene, went to the scene to enquire.
Upon realizing that a possible crime was committed he escorted the two police officers to the police station where they were arrested.”
In court, the two SAPS officers expressed via an affidavit that they intended to plead not guilty to the charges, and asked to be released on R1000 bail.
However, after the two were granted bail, the state asked the court to release them on R5000 bail because the two committed a serious offence.
Conditions of the bail include:
- the two, should not enter the Merafong district,
- not leave their area of jurisdiction without informing the investigating officer,
- not interfere with state witnesses, should hand over any firearm at their position,
- and should not book out any firearm should their employment be continued until the duration of the matter.
The matter was postponed to 26 April 2024, for further investigations.
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