SAPS under scrutiny as police captain charged with rape of trainee

A senior police officer entrusted with training recruits at the Tshwane Police Academy has been accused of using his authority to sexually abuse a young female trainee.

The 59-year-old police captain, who has served in the South African Police Service (SAPS) for 31 years, appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court today, 15 May 2025, on a charge of rape.

He allegedly raped a 20-year-old trainee on 6 May 2025, inside his office at the academy in Pretoria West.

POLICE CAPTIAN CHARGED WITH RAPE

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) stated that tensions began in April 2025 when the trainee passed the police officer without saluting him. She explained that she did not see him.

Weeks later, while walking to her bungalow with her platoon, the police officer summoned her to his office.

When the trainee arrived, he locked the door, threatened to dismiss her over the earlier incident, and demanded sexual favours. The police officer forced her to partially undress, undressed himself, and raped her. Afterwards, he told her to get dressed and leave.

INDEPENDENT POLICE INVESTIGATIVE DIRECTORATE TO INVESTIGATE

The trainee reported the incident to the academy authorities. They arranged immediate medical attention and referred her to the Laudium Thuthuzela Care Centre for counselling and support.

Police arrested the accused the following day, on 7 May 2025. Investigators then handed the case over to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).

What does this arrest say about internal accountability within law enforcement?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news