A Johannesburg man is speaking out after a terrifying home invasion turned into an even more shocking ordeal — when a police officer allegedly demanded a bribe in exchange for investigating the crime.
The man and his family were held at gunpoint during a brazen robbery at their home, where armed suspects stole their car and household valuables. But just a day after the attack, the trauma deepened when he received a call from someone identifying as a police officer — offering “assistance” in the case, but only if he paid up.
“I was still trying to process what happened to my family,” he said, “and then I get this call asking for money — from someone who is supposed to help.”
The victim, who has asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said the officer suggested the payment would “speed up the process” and improve the chances of recovering the stolen items.
The incident has raised serious concerns about corruption within law enforcement, with calls mounting for the South African Police Service (SAPS) to investigate and take decisive action.
Anti-corruption watchdogs have condemned the officer’s alleged actions, calling it a betrayal of public trust and an example of why many South Africans feel reluctant to report crimes.
“This is exactly the kind of misconduct that destroys confidence in our justice system,” said a representative from Corruption Watch.
The victim has since reported the officer’s request to SAPS’ anti-corruption unit, and an internal investigation is reportedly underway.
As crime continues to grip many South African communities, this case serves as a disturbing reminder that for some victims, the trauma doesn’t end when the criminals leave — it sometimes continues at the hands of those meant to protect them.
