As MMC for Community Safety, I have taken note of reports that a Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) official was arrested on Wednesday, 2 August 2023, on the N4 near Phola in Mpumalanga by the Middelburg Flying Squad, along with two accomplices.
According to the reports, another individual in the same vehicle was dressed in a TMPD uniform, however, it was established that he is not a member of the force.
The TMPD has since confirmed that one of the arrested individuals is indeed employed by the City as a TMPD Constable and all necessary processes are underway to assist the police.
It is alleged that the three suspects were conspiring with others to hijack a truck. The police uncovered that the vehicle they were using was reportedly hijacked in Daveyton.
Two network jamming devices were found in the vehicle and confiscated as evidence. When police interviewed the suspects, it was established that there was another vehicle in the vicinity that sped off after realising that the police were on their tail.
The three suspects were detained at Phola Police Station and were charged with possession of jamming devices and a stolen motor vehicle, and impersonating a police officer. They appeared in court yesterday.
It is extremely disheartening that those who have sworn an oath to uphold the law are being caught out blatantly breaking it. I have previously said that cleaning up the TMPD is a process that will take time.