WATCH | ‘We expect integrity’: SAPS probes cop filmed taking bribe

Johannesburg – The South African Police Service in Gauteng has launched a corruption investigation after a video circulating on social media allegedly shows a uniformed officer soliciting a bribe from a member of the public.

The footage, widely shared on TikTok, was also referenced in a post by social media user Bethuel Mathebula, who said: “A police officer was seen taking money from a delivery motorbike rider. This is not just misconduct it’s corruption and abuse of power. Officers are meant to protect the public, not exploit them.”

A police officer was seen taking money from a delivery motorbike rider. This is not just misconduct it’s corruption and abuse of power. Officers are meant to protect the public, not exploit them. pic.twitter.com/UkkfwzzKu9

— Bethuel Mathebula (@mabetie9405) April 28, 2026

Police said the officer has been identified and a case of corruption has been opened for investigation by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit. A separate departmental disciplinary process has also been instituted.

“The police officer in question has been identified and a case of corruption has been registered for immediate investigation,” SAPS said in a statement.

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni condemned the alleged conduct, saying corruption within the service will not be tolerated.

“We expect the highest level of integrity from our members. Those who betray the public trust will face the full consequences of the law,” he said.

SAPS reiterated its “zero-tolerance approach” to corruption, warning that both soliciting and accepting bribes are criminal offences and a breach of the SAPS Code of Conduct.

Members of the public have been urged not to offer bribes and to report corruption through official channels, including the Anti-Corruption Hotline, SAPS complaints centre, Corruption Watch WhatsApp line, or the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).