SAPS lieutenant general faces charges over alleged grooming of teenager and rape - IOL

A senior SAPS lieutenant general was arrested over sexual offences.

A 59-year-old Lieutenant General was arrested on charges of grooming and rape, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said on Monday.

According to SAPS in a statement released on Monday, 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, which is reported to have occurred at a hotel in Sandton in May 2026.

Acting National Commissioner of SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, welcomed the arrest and condemned the incident, particularly in the context of the country’s ongoing fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

Dimpane said police officers had a heightened responsibility to protect women and children from violence, abuse and exploitation.

“Police officers are entrusted with protecting women and children. They cannot themselves be implicated in conduct that undermines this responsibility. As the country continues to confront the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide, there can be no room for anyone within the police service who is alleged to abuse their position or violate the rights of women and children,” said Lieutenant General Dimpane.

Dimpane said the fight against GBVF must also involve accountability within the police service.

“Our commitment to combating GBVF must apply equally within our own organisation. Rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law. Where credible allegations of criminal conduct are brought against a police officer, they must be investigated without fear or favour,” Lieutenant General Dimpane said.

She added that SAPS would continue to take decisive action against members suspected of criminal conduct while respecting due process and the independence of the criminal justice system.

“The arrest demonstrates that SAPS will not shield members facing serious allegations of criminal conduct, irrespective of their rank or position,” the police statement said.

The case is expected to be heard at the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.