Africa-Press – South-Africa. A police captain and two other people have been arrested in Mpumalanga for allegedly detaining undocumented immigrants and demanding a bribe for their release.
Tshidi Anastacia Mamareko, 56, Santi Madoda Khumalo, 44, and Albert Ramuchu, 41, appeared in the eMalahleni Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on charges of corruption, extortion and kidnapping.
Police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli said they were arrested after 13 undocumented immigrants were reportedly put into a police van for hours. The accused also allegedly demanded a R10 000 bribe from the immigrants for their release.
“It is further alleged that these individuals were working at a certain construction site in [eMalahleni]. Apparently, the owner of the premises was also contacted to pay for the release of the 13 [people].
“After a few hours, cash was allegedly paid to the three suspects, and that was when they were arrested by members of the police from the Mpumalanga Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit,” said Mdhluli.
The police confiscated the cash that had been handed over to the accused. The three accused were granted bail of R2 000 each and were expected to appear in court again on 1 March.
“Internal investigations surrounding the incident against the female captain will also be conducted and disciplinary steps may be taken pending the outcome of the probe,” said Mdhluli.
Mpumalanga police commissioner Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has warned police officers against becoming involved in corruption.
“We cannot allow ourselves to be associated with corruption, and the law will have to take its course against such people who break the law, including those within our ranks, without fear or favour,” she said.
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