Gauteng police open probe after video shows Tshwane officers allegedly taking R2 000 bribe

Gauteng police have opened an inquiry after video footage circulated showing two Tshwane police officers allegedly accepting a R2 000 bribe during an Operation Shanela stop. The incident is reported to have occurred on 4 June in Wierdabrug.

What happened

According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the officers stopped a man riding a bicycle, seized the bicycle and transported him in a police vehicle to Wierdapark, where they allegedly took money from him for his release. The alleged bribery was captured on video that circulated on social media.

Investigations and departmental response

Colonel Nevhuhulwi said the officers have been identified and a departmental case has been opened. An inquiry has been registered and “all allegations will form part of the launched investigation,” he said.

He urged the public to report corruption formally so that statements under oath can be obtained to build cases that can stand trial. In his words:

“Although it is all good to raise awareness on social media, it should not end there; the public should formally report these matters so statements under oath may be obtained to build strong cases that can stand trial and eventually ensure the perpetrators are dealt with.”

Expert reaction

Academics cited in the report warned the alleged incident damages public trust and undermines the integrity of policing.

Witness Maluleka, head of department for criminology and criminal justice at the University of Limpopo, said there are ethical Saps officials but that “rotten apples” make it difficult for them to operate within the code of conduct and that this “negatively dents their image.”

Percy Sithuga from the University of Venda’s School of Law’s department of criminal justice described the matter as “deeply concerning,” saying it “undermines public trust in police and compromises the integrity of the criminal justice system.” He added that if proven, the officers’ actions would be a “serious abuse of police authority for personal gain” and said the incident highlights the need for stronger anti-corruption measures.

Next steps

The inquiry and departmental case will form part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have asked members of the public to make formal reports to the relevant platforms to support the process.