Picture: SAPS’ Lieutenant General arrested for rape
By BAKANG MOKOTO
22 September 2026 – The acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has welcomed the arrest of a senior police officer (59) holding the rank of Lieutenant General on charges relating to sexual offences. The arrest was effected on 21 September 2026, by members of the Commission Recommendations Task Team (CRTT).
Dimpane said the senior officer faces charges relating to the alleged sexual grooming of a girl (16) between July and August 2026, as well as the alleged rape of a woman (18). She further said the alleged rape is reported to have occurred at a hotel in Sandton in May 2026.
“The senior officer is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on 22 September 2026. We strongly condemned the alleged conduct, particularly in the context of the country’s ongoing fight against Gender-Based Violence and femicide (GBVF).
“I would also like to emphasise that members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have a heightened responsibility to protect women and children from violence, abuse and exploitation,” added Dimpane.
She said the police officers are entrusted with protecting women and children. Dimpane said 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.
“The fight against GBVF must begin with accountability within the ranks of the police. Our commitment to combating GBVF must apply equally within our own organisation. Rank, position or seniority cannot place anyone above the law,” she said.
Dimpane said where credible allegations of criminal conduct are brought against a police officer, they must be investigated without fear or favour. She said that SAPS will continue to take decisive action against members who are 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,” concluded Dimpane.
The Guardian 