Senior SAPS lieutenant general appears in court on grooming and rape charges

A senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officer, aged 59 and holding the rank of lieutenant general, appeared in the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday after his arrest on sexual offence allegations.

Allegations and charges

The officer is charged with the alleged grooming of a 16-year-old girl between July and August 2026, and with the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman at a Sandton hotel in May 2026. He was arrested on Monday night, September 21, by members of the Commission’s Recommendations Task Team (CRTT).

Official statements and reaction

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the man is facing charges relating to sexual offences, including the grooming and rape allegations.

Acting National Commissioner of SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, welcomed the arrest and strongly condemned the alleged conduct. Dimpane emphasised that police officers have a heightened responsibility to protect women and children from violence, abuse and exploitation.

“Police officers are entrusted with protecting women and children. They cannot themselves be implicated in conduct that undermines this responsibility.”

Dimpane also said the fight against gender-based violence and femicide must begin with accountability within the ranks of the police and that “rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law.” She added that where credible allegations of criminal conduct are brought against a police officer, they must be investigated without fear or favour.

Process and policing stance

Dimpane said SAPS will continue to take decisive action against members suspected of criminal conduct while respecting due process and the independence of the criminal justice system. She described the arrest as demonstrating that SAPS will not shield members facing serious allegations of criminal conduct, irrespective of their rank or position.

Next steps

The senior officer was expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.