A Free State police detective who demanded a R3,000 bribe from an accused person in exchange for making his criminal case disappear has been sentenced to five years behind bars.
Sergeant Lefu Shadrack Zwane, a detective attached to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Reitz, was sentenced by the Reitz Regional Court after being convicted of corruption.
NPA Free State regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the court also imposed an additional five-year prison sentence, wholly suspended for five years on condition that Zwane is not convicted of corruption during the suspension period.
Detective demanded R3,000 to derail case
Zwane was the investigating officer in a case in which the complainant was facing a charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Following the complainant’s arrest and first court appearance on October 27, 2025, Zwane approached him and demanded money to prevent the matter from going to trial.
“Zwane approached him and demanded R3,000 in exchange for ensuring that the criminal case did not proceed to trial,” Senokoatsane said.
The complainant reported the demand to his employer, who advised him to report the matter to a commander at Reitz Police Station. The case was subsequently referred to the Free State Anti-Corruption Unit.
Marked R3,000 used in undercover sting
Investigators obtained approval from the Director of Public Prosecutions to conduct an undercover operation.
The complainant was provided with R3,000 in R100 notes. The money was copied and its serial numbers recorded before a meeting with Zwane was arranged in Reitz.
Senokoatsane said the complainant met Zwane near the OK Mini Market, where the detective instructed him to get into his official vehicle and put the cash in the armrest.
“Zwane also indicated that the complainant’s case would be delayed until it was eventually struck off the court roll and that the investigation would not be finalised,” Senokoatsane said.
After handing over the cash, the complainant gave an agreed signal to members of the Anti-Corruption Unit.
Sergeant Seekoei and Sergeant Sehlabo approached the vehicle and recovered the marked R3,000. Zwane was subsequently arrested.
The matter was prosecuted by Jaco Scholtz.
NPA warns against corruption in police ranks
Senokoatsane said corruption involving law enforcement officials was particularly serious because of the position of trust occupied by police officers.
“The NPA regards corruption involving law enforcement officials as a serious matter, particularly when an official abuses a position of trust for personal financial gain,” he said.
“Such conduct undermines the integrity of the criminal justice system and erodes public confidence in those entrusted with enforcing the law.”
Senokoatsane said the prosecuting authority would continue pursuing officials who abuse their positions.
“The NPA remains committed to prosecuting corruption without fear, favour or prejudice, and to ensuring that criminal justice officials who abuse their positions are held accountable through due process,” he said.
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