A 32-year-old police constable attached to the Dimbaza SAPS Visible Policing (Vispol) Unit has been arrested in the Eastern Cape following serious allegations that he assaulted his 23-year-old pregnant girlfriend in a domestic violence incident that has left the local community deeply disturbed.
The alleged assault is reported to have taken place on 5 February 2026. According to police, the victim sustained significant injuries to her head and face and was rushed to Grey Hospital, where she received medical treatment. The extent of her injuries raised immediate concern and highlighted the seriousness of the incident.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the matter was officially reported the following day, on 6 February 2026. The Dimbaza Station Commander responded swiftly after receiving the complaint and initiated procedures to locate the suspect. As a precautionary measure, the officer was disarmed and relieved of his official firearm in line with SAPS regulations that apply when a member is implicated in a violent crime.
After the victim formally opened a case of Assault with Intent to Do Grievous Bodily Harm (Assault GBH) under the Domestic Violence Act, police launched an intensive search operation. Their efforts led to the suspect’s arrest on 7 February 2026 in the Zabalaza area, where he was found driving at the time. He has since been charged with Assault GBH (Domestic Violence) and remains in police custody.
The constable is expected to appear before the Dimbaza Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 9 February 2026. During this appearance, the charges against him will be formally presented, and the court is expected to consider issues related to bail and the conditions of his continued detention.
In her statement to police, the victim detailed the alleged abuse and claimed that the situation escalated after she informed the officer that she was pregnant. She further alleged that the suspect threatened her, saying that even if he were arrested, he would find a way to avoid facing justice. According to her account, he also mentioned that he was already in the process of securing legal representation, which she interpreted as an attempt to intimidate her and discourage her from pursuing the case.
The incident has once again placed the spotlight on the ongoing problem of gender-based violence in South Africa, particularly when it involves members of law enforcement who are entrusted with protecting the public. SAPS has repeatedly stressed that no one is above the law and that any officer accused of criminal conduct will be dealt with through the appropriate legal and disciplinary processes.
In a brief statement, police officials said the arrest demonstrates their commitment to holding their own members accountable and to treating allegations of domestic violence with the seriousness they deserve. They also urged victims of abuse to come forward and report such incidents, assuring the public that cases will be thoroughly investigated regardless of the rank or position of the accused.
As the legal process unfolds, the case is expected to draw significant public attention, serving as a sobering reminder of the continued fight against domestic violence and the importance of ensuring justice and protection for victims, especially those who are most vulnerable.
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