SAPS arrests lieutenant general over alleged grooming and rape

A 59-year-old senior police officer holding the rank of Lieutenant General has been arrested on charges relating to sexual offences, the South African Police Service said in a statement on Monday.

The officer faces charges relating to the alleged sexual grooming of a 16-year-old girl between July and August 2026, and the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman. The alleged rape is reported to have occurred at a hotel in Sandton in May 2026.

The arrest was carried out on Monday, 21 September 2026, by members of the Commissions Recommendations Task Team. The officer is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 September 2026.

Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane welcomed the arrest and condemned the alleged conduct, placing it in the context of the country’s ongoing 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. “As the country continues to confront the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide, there can be no room for anyone within the police service who is alleged to abuse their position or violate the rights of women and children.”

Dimpane said the fight against gender-based violence and femicide must begin with accountability inside the police service itself. “Our commitment to combating GBVF must apply equally within our own organisation. Rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law,” she said. “Where credible allegations of criminal conduct are brought against a police officer, they must be investigated without fear or favour.”

The Acting National Commissioner said SAPS would continue to act against members suspected of criminal conduct while respecting due process and the independence of the criminal justice system. According to the statement, the arrest demonstrates that the service will not shield members facing serious allegations, irrespective of rank or position.

The account above rests on the SAPS media statement summarising the arrest. The charges have not been tested in court, and the officer has not been named in the statement.

Source: South African Police Service, SAPS Acting National Commissioner welcomes arrest of senior officer on sexual offences charges