A Limpopo policewoman is being investigated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) on suspicion of raping a minor. The 40-year-old lady was detained on Friday and appeared in court for the first time on January 23.
As previously reported, the policewoman is accused with raping a kid, sexually grooming a child, and making and distributing child pornography. This is to protect the victim.
She remains in police detention and is scheduled to make a formal bail application before the Siyabuswa Magistrate’s Court on Monday, January 30.
IPID indicated their opposition to the bail application. The Directorate disclosed that the suspect is employed at the Groblersdal SAPS station.
“The child seen being sexually groomed by the officer in the video circulating on social media is receiving counseling,” stated spokesman Lizzy Suping.
After the woman’s arrest, the spokesperson for the Limpopo police, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, stated that internal disciplinary actions are underway.
Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe, the provincial police commissioner, instructed the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit to investigate the video promptly on Friday, and the accused was detained the same day.
“This woman’s acts are abhorrent and need severe criticism. Even though the suspect allegedly committed this offense while she was still a SAPS employee under the Public Service Act, she should have recognized that such improper conduct merited severe punishment. “The South African Police Service has no room for individuals who tarnish its reputation,” stated Hadebe.
»IPID will oppose bail for a policewoman suspected of child rape in Limpopo«