A police sergeant stationed at the Tzaneen family violence, child protection, and sexual offences unit was arrested after unlawfully releasing a rape accused from police custody. Sergeant Klass Edmond Mulungwamade (46) made his first court appearance yesterday, where he was charged with corruption and defeating the ends of justice.

CORRUPT COP

Limpopo SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said it is alleged that on 6 February 2024, Mulungwa failed to escort a prisoner for mental observation at a mental hospital. "On the same day, concerns were raised when the accused in a Schedule 6 offence (rape of a minor) was released from custody without a formal bail application," Mashaba said. He added that an internal investigation revealed that Mulungwa had allegedly acted without authorisation, misleading the prosecutor into believing that the bail was not opposed.

WARRANT OF ARREST ISSUED

Mashaba said police investigations led to the case being presented to the Director of Public Prosecutions, and a warrant of arrest was issued.  "On 18 March, members of the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit and Tactical Response Team arrested the suspect while on duty. He was detained at SAPS Ritavi. He was granted R1000.00 bail, and his case was postponed until 25 April."