The Azanian Ground Forces (AGF) has raised serious concerns over alleged corruption at Elsburg Police Station, where officers are accused of accepting bribes from undocumented immigrants in exchange for their release.
AGF leader Tlhogi Moseki led a visit to the station on Wednesday, April 29, following claims that eight undocumented immigrants were arrested over the weekend and detained at the facility.
However, it’s alleged that only four of the detainees appeared before the magistrate at the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 28 April.
“It is alleged that the four individuals who did not appear in court allegedly bribed police officers in order to secure their release,” said Moseki.
“We visited the station to engage with the station commander and seek clarity on why these individuals were released. It is deeply concerning that officers entrusted with fighting crime may themselves be implicated in unlawful activities.”
Moseki confirmed that the station commander acknowledged receipt of the complaint and has committed to initiating an internal investigation.
“We expect decisive action. The AGF will continue to monitor this matter closely and will expand its oversight by visiting police stations across Ekurhuleni to root out corruption within the police service,” he said.
While recognising the positive work carried out by many police officers, Moseki stressed the importance of accountability.
“Police must be monitored to ensure they perform their duties diligently and uphold their responsibility to protect the people of South Africa.”
AGF media liaison officer Fifi Gcisa said the organisation had received a tip-off pointing to inconsistencies in police operations at Elsburg Police Station.
“We were informed that although operations are being conducted, not all suspects arrested are being detained.
“We want to see these operations yielding meaningful results.
“Lawbreakers must be arrested and detained. Releasing suspects before court appearances undermines the purpose of these operations,” she said.
In response, Ekurhuleni District police spokesperson Captain Neldah Sekgobela stated that according to official records at Elsburg SAPS, all suspects and case dockets were processed and forwarded to the Germiston Magistrate’s Court recently.
“We handed everything over to the court,” said Sekgobela.
