Three employees of the South African Police Service (SAPS), including two uniformed officers and a cleaner, have been arrested for allegedly looting cargo from a delivery truck that crashed near Modimolle in Limpopo. The arrests follow a detailed investigation led by the Limpopo provincial anti-corruption unit, and the suspects now face charges of theft and defeating the ends of justice.
The incident occurred on the early morning of July 14, 2025, around 4:20am, on the R101 road approximately 10 kilometres outside Modimolle, heading towards Polokwane. According to Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, a truck transporting pallets of washing powder veered off the road, spilling part of its load along the roadside.
As the truck driver attempted to manage the accident scene, multiple vehicles stopped, and bystanders began looting the washing powder. Among those who arrived shortly after were two SAPS officers in a marked police van. Instead of helping the distressed driver or preventing the theft, the officers allegedly joined in, loading a large amount of the washing powder into their police vehicle.
“The complainant pleaded with the officers to assist in stopping the looting,” said Ledwaba. “Shockingly, they ignored the request and participated in the theft, then drove off while the looting continued.”
Following the incident, the truck driver gathered essential information and reported the crime. This led to a prompt investigation, and on July 18, a search operation recovered some of the stolen goods from the home of one of the police officers. The probe further uncovered that a third SAPS employee — a general cleaner — was also involved in the crime.
The three suspects, aged between 49 and 55, are all stationed at Modimolle Police Station. They are expected to appear before the Modimolle Magistrate’s Court. The investigation remains active, and authorities have confirmed that further arrests may follow.
Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe strongly condemned the involvement of SAPS members in criminal conduct. “It is extremely disheartening when those entrusted with enforcing the law betray that trust. We cannot and will not tolerate corruption or criminal behaviour within our ranks,” she said.
Hadebe reassured the public that SAPS leadership is committed to rooting out misconduct and holding all members accountable, regardless of rank or position.
Authorities have urged community members who may have witnessed the looting or possess any relevant information to report it to their nearest police station or contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
This disturbing incident has reignited concerns about corruption within law enforcement and raises questions about the integrity of those meant to protect and serve. As the case unfolds in court, the spotlight remains on SAPS leadership to ensure justice is served and trust in the police force is restored.
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