Seven SAPS officers have been arrested by the JMPD for allegedly kidnapping and extorting a suspected illegal miner in possession of unrefined gold. Image: JMPD.
(The Post News)- The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Reaction Unit (TRU) has detained seven South African Police Service (SAPS) officers on serious extortion and kidnapping accusations.
The arrests are in response to an incident in which an illegal miner, known as a “Zama Zama,” was allegedly found in possession of raw gold. The incident is the latest in a series of high-profile arrests involving law enforcement officers and has highlighted growing tensions between the two agencies.
In order to secure the suspected illegal miner’s release, the SAPS officers, who are associated with the West Rand Public Order Police Unit, reportedly requested money from him. Additionally, the SAPS officers allegedly increased their demand to R30,000 following an initial demand of R5,000.
According to MMC Mgcini Tshwaku of the City of Johannesburg Public Safety, the cops allegedly went one step further and took the person to a loaning facility in an effort to obtain the money. While the cops were waiting for the money, the JMPD TRU stepped in and arrested the SAPS officers immediately present.
Booysens SAPS Opened Extortion and Kidnapping Case
The seven arrested officers are currently being detained at Booysens Police Station, where a case of extortion and kidnapping has been opened. They are expected to appear in the Booysens Magistrate’s Court.
The alleged victim, the illegal miner, is reportedly cooperating with authorities and has provided a statement. However, police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili has noted that the individual may also face charges under the Precious Metals Act.
Meanwhile, the investigation has been taken over by the SAPS Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit. Moreover, Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni has welcomed the arrests. He also assured the public that a diligent investigation will be conducted to “root out criminality and corruption” within the South African Police Service.
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