The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State has reaffirmed its commitment to rooting out corruption following the arrest of three police officers in Verkykerskop and the successful conviction of a man who attempted to bribe an officer in Sasolburg.
Constable Tumelo Mokone (36), Sergeant Lucky Kubheka (43), and Sergeant Tieho Tieho (42) were arrested by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit on 30 January 2025 in Harrismith on charges of theft and corruption. Their arrest stems from an incident on 21 December 2023, when a complainant left his bank card at an ATM in Harrismith. The officers retrieved the card and were later caught on video using it to purchase alcohol at three different liquor stores. When a criminal case was opened, they attempted to bribe the complainant with R1,000 to drop the charges, but he refused and pursued legal action. The trio remains in custody and will appear for a formal bail application on 3 February 2025.
In a separate case, Letuka Michael Lebona (50) was convicted and sentenced for corruption and defeating the ends of justice after attempting to bribe a police officer to make a rape case disappear. On 30 January 2024, Lebona offered R3,000 to Sergeant Kelebogile Xola of the Zamdela Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in exchange for the rape case docket involving his employee. Sgt Xola immediately reported the matter, leading to an undercover operation where Lebona was caught handing over the bribe. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced on 29 January 2025 to a R50,000 fine or five years’ imprisonment.
Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, condemned the actions of the arrested officers and praised those who upheld their integrity. “We are deeply disappointed by the betrayal of trust by these officers and will ensure they face the full might of the law. At the same time, we commend Sergeant Xola for her professionalism and dedication to justice. SAPS remains resolute in eliminating corruption and ensuring accountability within the service.”
The rape case linked to the Sasolburg incident remains ongoing, with the 34-year-old accused set to appear in court again on 13 February 2025.