By OBAKENG MAJE
27 June 2025- A police officer (46) attached to Potchefstroom Detectives was arrested for corruption during an undercover operation by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit (ACIU) on 25 June 2025. It is alleged that a Crime Combating Unit (CCU) member was driving a state motor vehicle when it collided with a private motor vehicle in February 2025.
The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the accused, as the Investigating Officer, Sergeant David Smous, allegedly solicited R10 000 in exchange for dropping the case. Mokgwabone said investigations conducted after the matter was reported to the ACIU.
“This led to the arrest of Smous. He was granted R2000 bail upon appearance in the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 26 June 2025. The corruption case was postponed until 17 July 2025,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng indicated that, Smous is deeply disappointing, disgraceful and an insult to the image, trust and reputation of the SAPS, his colleagues and his family. Asaneng said his arrest should send a strong message to his ilk that they do not have a place in the SAPS and in the community.
“This abominable conduct will not and must not be countenanced and will be subjected to the harshest form of punishment in order to send a strong warning and message to those who decide to sell their souls, dishonour and denigrate their oath of office through greed and corruption.
“I would like to caution that, corrupt tendencies that cause reputational damage to the South African Police Service (SAPS) cannot be tolerated,” he said.
The Guardian 