Know Your Rights: JMPD Officers Arrested for Corruption

Two JMPD officers arrested for corruption in Parktown: A step towards restoring public trust

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department’s Internal Affairs Unit arrested two officers on Saturday, 19 July 2025, for extortion and corruption following coordinated investigative efforts. This arrest highlights the JMPD’s intensifying efforts in eradicating corruption and restoring public trust in law enforcement throughout the city.

Details of Arrests

A motorist complained that officers had demanded an R8,000 fine after accusing his company driver of fleeing the scene of a minor accident.

The JMPD Internal Affairs Unit tracked the officers down to a BP Garage in Parktown where they conducted a thorough search. During the investigation, R5,340 was found on the officers. A portion of the money was hidden inside their vehicle. This raised suspicions that the officers had obtained illegal gains. Authorities arrested the officers at Jeppe SAPS for corruption and extortion.

JMPD’s Official Reaction

Chief of the JMPD and Commissioner Patrick Jaca issued a strong response to the arrests.

The arrest of these two officers sends a clear message: there is no place for corruption within the JMPD. We are unwavering in our commitment to rooting out corrupt elements and ensuring that our officers serve with integrity and honour. We urge the public to continue reporting any suspicious activities, as their vigilance is crucial in helping us maintain a trustworthy police service.

He also urged the public to be vigilant and to report any incidents of misconduct. He emphasized that transparency and accountability are essential to building a trustworthy police force.

Know Your Rights during JMPD Encounters

Understanding your rights will help you to avoid exploitation. South African citizens have several legal rights when dealing with law enforcement.

• Right to remain silent. You are not required to answer any questions that could incriminate you.
• Request Officer ID – Officers must provide name and badge number on request.
• Refuse illegal Payments– You can never be forced to pay any bribe.
• Request Receipts– Always request an official receipt for any payments made.
• File a Complaint Report misconduct to JMPD’s Internal Affairs or IPID.

Reporting JMPD corruption

The police encourage the public to report any unethical or criminal behaviour by officers through official channels.

• JMPD Anti-Fraud & Corruption Hotline: 0800 203 712
• Internal Affairs Email: [email protected]
• IPID (Independent Police Investigative Directorate)

The public can submit anonymous reports through official channels. Reporting helps expose unethical or criminal behaviour by officers. Your voice is important in the fight against corruption.

Wider context: A system under scrutiny

This latest incident is part of a larger investigation into the internal misconduct within JMPD. Previous reports revealed schemes involving electronic wallet payments and Ghost accounts. This made financial tracing difficult.

JMPD’s Internal Affairs Unit continues to crack down on corrupt activities. Commissioner Jaca has warned both officers, and members of public offering bribes, will face prosecution.

Why it Matters

Corruption undermines public trust in police and threatens the safety of Johannesburg’s communities. These arrests are a sign of progress, but accountability to the public is still essential.

The JMPD’s efforts to eliminate unethical conduct align with broader governance changes, which promote ethical conduct, professionalism and community trust in the law enforcement.

What You Can Do

• Stay informed: Know what your rights and responsibilities are.
• Take an active role in promoting safety and accountability by joining your local Community Policing Forum.
• Report Wrongdoing. Do not turn a blind eye to police corruption and misconduct.
• Support Ethical Police: Share resources and information that promote integrity in law enforcement.

Also read our article on the Outrage as City of Tshwane Blocks Legally Approved Workers’ Protest.

Anti-Corruption

The arrests of two JMPD police officers are a significant step in addressing the misconduct amongst Johannesburg’s law enforcement ranks. The city hopes to restore public confidence by promoting a transparent and accountable police service.

Citizens are encouraged by the JMPD to partner up with them by reporting wrongdoing, engaging in civic forums and spreading awareness – because a safer Johannesburg begins with action and trust.