Limpopo Police cleck charged with theft after R50k goes missing

A 44-year-old administration clerk attached to the SAPS Finance Section in Phalaborwa has been charged with theft after more than R50,000 allegedly disappeared from a police safe.

According to police, the Limpopo Provincial Finance Unit conducted a routine financial inspection at the Phalaborwa SAPS Finance Section on 30 October 2025. During the inspection, the clerk was requested to open a police safe for cash reconciliation purposes.

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Upon inspection, officials allegedly discovered that the safe was empty and that more than R50,000 in cash was missing. When questioned about the missing funds, the employee reportedly failed to provide a satisfactory explanation.

The matter was immediately referred to the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit for further investigation.

On Wednesday, 3 June 2026, the 44-year-old employee was formally charged with theft. She is expected to make her first appearance in the Phalaborwa Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 30 June 2026.

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The Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo, , expressed disappointment over the incident and welcomed the progress made in the case.

“I commend the Provincial Finance Unit and the Anti-Corruption Unit for their swift action in detecting and investigating this matter,” said Hadebe.

“This arrest sends a clear message that we hold our employees to the highest standards of integrity, especially those entrusted with financial responsibilities.”