The constable and the 32-year-old remain in custody after their arrest in Dealesville. The 30-year-old, attached to Dealesville crime prevention, was arrested on Monday (28/9) after a warrant was executed.

The civilian, described by police as the local Youth League chairperson, was apprehended shortly afterwards by members of the provincial police anti-corruption unit.

Free State police spokesperson Lt. Col. Thabo Covane said the arrests follow an investigation into allegations that the constable and her co-accused approached several foreign-owned spaza shops in Dealesville on 27 May. The constable was reportedly on annual leave.

“The pair allegedly asked shop owners for donations by falsely claiming that police officers from Bloemfontein would be arriving to safeguard the businesses against possible looting,” said Covane.

One shop owner allegedly provided chicken and soft drinks, while others refused to contribute without an official letter from the station commander. The matter was reported to a passing police officer, and investigators subsequently established that the station commander had no knowledge of the alleged solicitation.

Police further allege that the food collected from one of the businesses was taken to a private residence, where it was prepared and consumed by the suspects. 

The arrests follow previous corruption cases involving police officials in the province. In 2024, former officer Bontle Mpolokeng Monenyane and a civilian were convicted in Bloemfontein on charges including corruption, kidnapping and attempted extortion after allegedly demanding R10,000, purportedly for bail.

Free State police say they maintain a zero-tolerance approach to corruption within their ranks and will continue investigating allegations involving officials. The two Dealesville suspects face four counts of corruption when they make their first court appearance.

OFM News cvs

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline 066 487 1427.