Two Eastern Cape officers facing extortion charges following arrest

Two Eastern Cape police officers will spend their Christmas behind bars following their arrest on Sunday for extortion-related charges in the Khambi area, outside Mthatha.

The officers, members of the Public Order Police (POP) unit, are accused of demanding money from local liquor traders operating without valid licenses. Their arrest followed a tip-off to the department alleging that members of the force were abusing their authority for personal gain.

According to authorities, the suspects were operating in full police uniform at the time of the alleged crimes.

Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Siphokazi Mawisa, confirmed that a joint operation led to their apprehension.

“Upon arrival, members were joined by the National Intervention Unit (NIU), who found the suspects inside the identified vehicle, dressed in full SAPS uniform. One of the members was found in possession of a service firearm,” Mawisa said.

Eastern Cape police management has responded sternly to the arrests, reiterating that no member of the force is above the law. Leadership has vowed that decisive action will be taken against any officer found to be breaking the law, regardless of their rank or position.

The two suspects remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in court next week to apply for bail.