By OBAKENG MAJE
7 July 2025- The South African Police Services (SAPS) in North West said it has seen a video that is widely circulated on the TikTok social media platform, which shows a group of people accusing a police officer who is believed to be the Station Commander of Bethanie Police Station of reeking of alcohol and being under the influence of liquor while in uniform and on duty.
The acting North West Commissioner, Major General PatrickAsaneng said that ill-discipline and intemperate behaviour by members shall not be tolerated. Asaneng said they view the video including the allegations in a very serious light and has instructed the District Commissioner to immediately investigate the allegations, which if indeed true amounts not only to serious misconduct, but also a criminal offence.
“These allegations cannot and should not be taken lightly as they are damaging to the integrity and professional image of the SAPS further contributing to the trust deficit between the police and the community.
“It is therefore important that such allegations be investigated expeditiously, which will require the cooperation of all the witnesses. Preliminary investigation indicates that the people who can assist in expediting this investigation are two members of the Patriotic Alliance and Operation Dudula who came from Gauteng to support the group in Bethanie,” he said.
Asaneng further said efforts have been made by talking to locals to obtain evidence and it has been indicated that the two are the best placed to help unravel the allegations against the police officer. He added that, the SAPS is therefore, calling upon the two to urgently contact the District Commissioner or the Provincial Corporate Communication & Liaison to assist in this investigation.
“It is equally important to point out that this matter shall be investigated without fear, favour or prejudice. The two possible witnesses are further advised that making and publicising information of such a serious nature without reporting it to the relevant authorities may result in them being charged for defeating or obstructing the course of justice.
“It is a criminal offence to obstruct, interfere or hinder the police in the execution of their duties including maliciously circulating false or defamatory statements,” said Asaneng.
The Guardian 