SAPS General Arrested On Alleged Rape And Child-Grooming Charges
A 59-year-old South African Police Service officer holding the rank of Lieutenant General was arrested today, Monday on charges relating to the alleged sexual grooming of a 16-year-old girl and the alleged r**pe of an 18-year-old woman.
The arrest was carried out by the Commissions Recommendations Task Team (CRTT), the unit set up to pursue matters arising from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. The officer is expected to appear in the Randburg Magistrates’ Cour tommorow, Tuesday, 22 September 2026.
According to SAPS, the grooming allegations relate to July and August 2026. The alleged r**pe is said to have taken place at a hotel in Sandton in May 2026. Police have not named the officer. Reports said a warrant was executed in the Rivonia/Sandton area and that the arrest took place at an upmarket adult club; SAPS has not confirmed those details.
Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane welcomed the arrest and condemned the alleged conduct, linking it to South Africa’s fight against gender-based violence and femicide.
“Police officers are entrusted with protecting women and children. They cannot themselves be implicated in conduct that undermines this responsibility,” she said. “Rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law.”
Dimpane said SAPS would act against members facing credible criminal allegations while respecting due process. The officer has not yet pleaded and remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
