Four members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have been arrested in Carolina following allegations of corruption, theft, and defeating the ends of justice.
According to a media statement issued by the office of the Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga, the arrests took place on Tuesday, 24 March 2026. The suspects — three constables and one sergeant, aged between 24 and 43 — were allegedly involved in misconduct after responding to information about a vehicle suspected of transporting dagga at a local guest house. Upon inspection, officers confirmed that the white Toyota Fortuner contained multiple bags of dagga. It is alleged that while arrangements were made to tow the vehicle, some of the confiscated dagga was diverted and exchanged for cash at a local second-hand dealership instead of being booked in as evidence.
Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the actions, calling for harsher sentences for officers who commit crimes while on duty.
“We cannot have criminals within our ranks who hide behind the badge. Those who undermine our efforts to combat crime must be exposed, arrested, and held accountable,” he said.