Limpopo SAPS Officers Busted for Looting Washing Powder After Truck Crash

A roadside crash turned into a soap opera of scandal when police officers meant to protect the scene joined in on the looting.

What should have been a routine police response to a delivery truck accident in Limpopo ended in public disgrace for three SAPS employees. Two uniformed officers and a police station cleaner stationed at Modimolle now face criminal charges, not for catching crooks, but for becoming them.

The incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, 14 July 2025, along the R101 near Modimolle. A delivery truck, transporting several pallets of washing powder, veered off the road about 10km outside town. The driver, shaken but unharmed, tried to guard the spilled cargo as opportunistic passersby began helping themselves.

Then came the shocking twist. A marked SAPS vehicle pulled up, a sight that usually brings relief at a crash scene. But instead of restoring order, the responding officers allegedly joined the looters.

“The driver pleaded with them for help,” said Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba. “Instead, the officers loaded boxes of washing powder into the police vehicle and left the scene.”

Arrested with Soap in Hand

The matter didn’t end there. Thanks to the driver’s detailed report, including a description of the SAPS vehicle and the officers involved, an internal investigation kicked off almost immediately.

By Friday, 18 July, a raid on one of the officer’s homes led to the recovery of stolen goods. Investigators also uncovered the involvement of a third SAPS employee, a station cleaner.

All three suspects, aged between 49 and 55, have been arrested on charges of theft and defeating the ends of justice. They are due in the Modimolle Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Community Disgust, SAPS Embarrassed

On social media, Limpopo residents expressed everything from disbelief to outrage.

“Not even the police are safe from the temptation of washing powder. Yoh, we’re in trouble,” one X (formerly Twitter) user posted.

Others questioned what this said about broader issues of corruption and desperation within state services.

A Bigger Pattern of Betrayal?

This isn’t the first time SAPS officers in South Africa have found themselves on the wrong side of the law. While the majority of police personnel serve honourably, high-profile cases of misconduct and corruption continue to shake public confidence.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, provincial commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo, didn’t mince words. “It is extremely disheartening when those entrusted with upholding the law violate that trust. Corruption and criminal behaviour within SAPS will not be tolerated.”

The investigation is still underway, and authorities have hinted that more arrests could follow.

What Happens Next?

The trio’s arrest may be just the beginning of a deeper probe. Police have urged anyone with information about the looting spree to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously via the Crime Stop line: 08600 10111.

In a province where SAPS is trying to rebuild community trust, this soap-stealing saga is more than just embarrassing, it’s a stark reminder of the thin line between power and abuse.

{Source: IOL}

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