Johannesburg – A 59-year-old senior South African police officer holding the rank of lieutenant general has been arrested on charges relating to alleged sexual offences.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the officer was arrested on Monday, 21 September 2026, by members of the Commissions Recommendations Task Team (CRTT).
According to SAPS, the officer faces charges linked to the alleged sexual grooming of a 16-year-old girl between July and August 2026, as well as 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 officer is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 September.
Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane welcomed the arrest and condemned the alleged conduct, particularly amid South Africa’s ongoing fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
“Police officers are entrusted with protecting women and children. They cannot themselves be implicated in conduct that undermines this responsibility,” Dimpane said.
She stressed that police officers accused of criminal conduct must be held accountable regardless of their rank.
“Our commitment to combating GBVF must apply equally within our own organisation. Rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law,” Dimpane said.
She added that credible allegations against police officers must be investigated “without fear or favour”, while due process and the independence of the criminal justice system are respected.
SAPS said the arrest demonstrates that it will not shield members facing serious criminal allegations, irrespective of their rank or position.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
