An immigrant gardener, known as John, was allegedly robbed by individuals believed to be South African Police Service (SAPS) officers in Wierdapark, Gauteng, while they demanded to see his passport on 1 June 2026.
According to reports, when John offered to retrieve his passport, the officers reportedly forced him into a police van along with his bicycle. They allegedly took him to a secluded area where they seized R950 from him before dropping him off back in Wierdapark, driving away with his bicycle.
Police Investigation Underway
Gauteng police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that the officers involved have been identified and that a departmental case has been opened against them. A criminal case will also be initiated following arrangements for statement taking from the complainant.
“The members have been identified, and a departmental case has been opened against them. A criminal case will also be opened as the station management has traced and arranged with the complainant for statement taking,” Nevhuhulwi stated.
Context of Police Conduct in South Africa
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding police conduct in South Africa, particularly the treatment of immigrants. Allegations of SAPS officials engaging in misconduct, including robbery and corruption, have surfaced in various regions throughout the country. Calls for enhancing oversight and accountability within the police force have intensified as communities seek to restore trust in law enforcement.
“Four houses down from where he lives, he was stopped by SAPS [allegedly] wanting to see his passport,” said a local resident, Gideon Le Roux.