
Recent incidents involving police officers in South Africa have intensified worries about corruption within law enforcement agencies.
Sergeant Detained Over Drug Charges
This week, a 41-year-old sergeant from the Free State’s anti-gang division was re-arrested along with a female accomplice for the possession of mandrax tablets.
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On May 11, 2023, the Hawks executed a search warrant at his residence in Hennenman, where they discovered 14 mandrax tablets. Although initially released pending forensic analysis, the suspects now face new charges.
“While justice may sometimes feel slow, we will ensure accountability,” remarked Brigadier Sophie Hange, Acting Head of the Hawks in the Free State. Both individuals are set to appear in the Hennenman Magistrate’s Court on January 15, 2025.
Officer Charged with Cattle Theft
In a separate case, Sergeant Andile Matantala from the stock theft unit in Alice appeared in the Queenstown Magistrate’s Court, facing charges of fraud and theft.

The accusations stem from a 2021 incident where Matantala allegedly seized four cows through fraudulent means. Despite the owner providing proof of purchase, the cattle were taken, never returned, and subsequently handed over to one of Matantala’s acquaintances.
Investigations by the Hawks revealed that the cows were initially logged at a municipal pound but were illegally released the following day. Matantala was arrested on December 18, 2024.
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