A 59-year-old South African Police Service (SAPS) Lieutenant-General has been arrested at a restaurant in Sandton on charges relating to alleged sexual offences.
The senior officer was arrested on Monday, 21 September 2026, by members of the Commissions Recommendations Task Team (CRTT).
According to SAPS, the officer faces allegations relating to the sexual grooming of a 16-year-old girl between July and August 2026.
He is also accused of the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman in an incident reported to have occurred at a hotel in Sandton in May 2026.
The officer is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 September 2026.
SAPS leadership welcomes arrest
Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane welcomed the arrest and said the allegations were particularly serious given the country’s ongoing efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Dimpane said police officers have 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,” Dimpane said.
She added that rank, position or seniority could not place anyone above the law and that credible allegations of criminal conduct against police officers must be investigated without fear or favour.
Officer expected in court
SAPS said the organisation would continue taking action against members suspected of criminal conduct while respecting due process and the independence of the criminal justice system.
The arrest follows an investigation by the CRTT, which was established to deal with recommendations arising from commissions of inquiry.