Johannesburg – A 47-year-old South African Police Service (SAPS) warrant officer stationed at the Maseru Port of Entry has been arrested on allegations of corruption and extortion after reportedly demanding a R10,000 bribe from a traveller carrying R71,000 in cash.
SAPS said the officer was arrested on Thursday, 27 August 2026, at about 3.30pm following the execution of a warrant.
According to police, the officer was on duty at the border post when he noticed an unidentified man walking from the South African side towards Lesotho.
The officer allegedly stopped and searched the traveller’s bag, where he found R71,000 in cash.
SAPS said the officer then allegedly threatened to arrest the traveller for money laundering unless he paid R10,000.
The traveller reportedly contacted his sister, who owned the money, and handed the phone to the police officer.
“ To ensure her brother’s safe passage into Lesotho, the sister advised him to hand over the demanded R10,000.00,” SAPS said.
After allegedly receiving the money, the officer allowed the traveller to proceed into Lesotho with the remaining cash.
The matter was later formally reported by the victim and referred to the Free State Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for investigation.
“Following thorough investigative steps, a warrant for the member’s arrest was obtained and executed today,” SAPS said.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia said the province would maintain a firm stance against corruption within the police service.
Lesia “decreed that the police in the Province shall maintain a zero-tolerance approach towards corruption within its ranks”, according to SAPS.
The commissioner also reaffirmed that criminal conduct by police officials would be dealt with decisively.
The arrested officer is expected to appear in court on Friday, 28 August, where he will face charges of corruption and extortion.
SAPS urged members of the public to report alleged corruption and extortion involving police officials to the relevant authorities.
“All reports assist SAPS in taking decisive action against criminal behaviour within its ranks,” the police said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
