POLOKWANE – A 58-year-old official attached to Capricorn TVET College in Polokwane has been arrested on charges of alleged corruption and extortion after reportedly demanding R100,000 from a farmer in exchange for the release of R750,000 in project funding.

The suspect was arrested on Friday, 16 October 2026, during a covert police operation conducted by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit, assisted by the Provincial Organised Crime Unit and the Capricorn Flying Squad.

According to police, the investigation followed a complaint lodged by a farmer from Senwabarwana, who alleged that the official demanded gratification in exchange for releasing funding intended for land to be used for practical training by 33 students under the Department of Agriculture.

The farmer further alleged that he had previously deposited money into the suspect’s personal bank account under the pretext of paying for “coffee”.

Police investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly presented himself as an official from the Department of Agriculture in connection with the funding.

During the entrapment operation in Polokwane, the farmer reportedly handed over R40,000 in cash to the suspect. Police arrested him shortly afterwards and seized the money.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 19 October 2026, facing charges of corruption and extortion.

Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Petrus Scheepers welcomed the arrest, reiterating the police’s commitment to fighting corruption and holding accountable those who abuse positions of authority.

Police investigations are continuing.

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