Xolani Khumalo
A 59-year-old Lieutenant-General was arrested in Sandton in Gauteng on Monday evening. The senior officer faces charges relating to the alleged sexual grooming of a 16-year-old girl between July and August 2026, as well as the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman.
This comes in the midst of a chaotic climate in SAPS senior ranks as multiple officials are in and out of court, and lining up to testify at the Madlanga Commission.
Acting National Police Commissioner Puleng Dimpane has welcomed the arrest of the senior police officer.
Dimpane says police officers have a duty to protect women and children and must not be implicated in conduct that undermines this responsibility.
National Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says the fight against gender-based violence and femicide must begin with accountability within the ranks of the police.
“This arrest demonstrates that SAPS will not shield members facing serious allegations of misconduct, irrespective of their rank or position.”
“Our commitment to combatting GBVF must apply equally within our organisation. Rank, position or seniority can not place anyone above the law.,” said Mathe.
Listen to Mathe’s audio below…
The accused official is expected to appear at the Randburg Magistate’s court on Tuesday.
