The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) has released a formal statement regarding a social media video that sparked allegations of bribery involving its officers. The department's investigation concludes that the claims of corruption are unfounded.
Background of the incident
The investigation was triggered on 13 May 2026 following the circulation of a video online. The footage appeared to show officers accepting money from one of six undocumented immigrants who had been arrested during an operation in Winternest, Mabopane, on 12 May 2026.
Findings of the preliminary report
According to the official findings, the interaction was not an act of bribery but a request for safekeeping. A suspect voluntarily handed over R1,000 to the officers because he feared losing the cash while being transported or held in custody.
The officers counted the money in the suspect's presence and properly booked the funds into the SAPS22 Prisoner's Property Register, a record that has since been verified by authorities.
Clarification on the video evidence
The detainee who recorded the video has provided a statement clarifying the intent behind the footage. He confirmed that he recorded the transaction at his brother's request to serve as proof of the amount handed over, with no intention of implicating the officers in wrongdoing.
The TMPD maintains that the video was misinterpreted by the public, resulting in a false narrative that harmed the integrity of the officers on the ground.
“At this time, no evidence supports claims of unlawful conduct. The money was voluntarily surrendered for safekeeping, and it was properly documented in the authorised register.”
Commitment to integrity
The Chief of Police, Commissioner YCR Faro, has urged the public to continue reporting any genuine acts of corruption through the correct SAPS and TMPD channels. The department reiterated its commitment to transparency and its ongoing mission to combat lawlessness within Tshwane.