VANDERBIJLPARK, GAUTENG — Five police sergeants attached to the Vanderbijlpark SAPS Task Team are facing serious corruption and extortion charges after a rigorous undercover investigation by the Hawks culminated in their court appearance this week.
The accused officers—Johannes Thakhisi (45), Ntombeko Seya (44), Mpho Molatedi (39), Nhlanhla Sithole (42), and Tlokotsi Kganya (36)—stood before the Vanderbijlpark Regional Court for the first time. The magistrate has postponed the matter to 13 July to allow the state more time for further investigation.
The legal action against the five sergeants is the direct result of a probe launched by the Hawks’ Vaal Serious Corruption Investigation (SCI) unit. The investigation was triggered by a disturbing incident that allegedly occurred on 27 October 2024.
According to authorities, the task team members conducted a raid on a local business, Oreo Supermarket, claiming they were searching for illegal cigarettes. However, instead of carrying out standard law enforcement duties, the officers allegedly used the raid as a pretext to extort the business owner.
The sergeants reportedly demanded a R100,000 bribe from the proprietor in exchange for avoiding arrest. After intense negotiations facilitated by a middleman, the corrupt officials allegedly agreed to lower their illicit payoff to R25,000. Realizing the gravity of the situation, the targeted business owner secretly contacted the Hawks’ Vaal SCI to report the extortion.
Law enforcement quickly approved an undercover sting operation to catch the officers in the act. Although the suspects ultimately failed to collect the marked money on the scheduled day because of operational delays, the probe did not stall. Investigators continued their rigorous work, especially after the case file was bolstered by reports that the complainant was subjected to threats and intimidation.
Once the comprehensive docket was finalized, it was handed over to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The DPP reviewed the evidence and authorized criminal prosecution. Acting on this directive, investigators successfully served summonses on all five accused sergeants on 18 June 2026, compelling them to face the charges in court this week.