Mthatha cop arrested for firearm theft in PE thanks to CCTV cameras

A 36-year-old police Warrant Officer from Mthatha is expected in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court on Monday on charges of theft of state property and negligence after he was caught on CCTV allegedly giving away his service firearm to unknown men.

"It is alleged that on Friday, the officer from Madeira detectives in Mthatha reported a case of robbery, which supposedly took place in front of a hotel in Prospect Hill Street in Central, Port Elizabeth," described police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu.

"He further alleged that he was robbed of his state firearm, cash and cell phone.

"Video footage outside the hotel revealed that the police officer was seen meeting two men, who got into his vehicle and after a while they exited and left.

"Further probing revealed that the officer had lied and that the firearm, money and cell phone was given to the men."

Colonel Naidu said that the officer alleged that he had met with the men earlier in the day as he wanted them to pray for his misfortunes.

"The member was arrested and detained at SAPS Humewood."

The Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga has expressed her concern that police officers are engaging in corrupt activities.

"Our Back to Basics approach to policing focusses on every member of the SAPS conducting themselves with integrity and professionalism. It is in the interest of society that we expose and root out corrupt elements within the Province through zero tolerance to corruption," she said.

In its effort to eradicate any form of criminality, the SAPS is encouraging anyone with information to call the National Anti-Corruption Hotline 0800 701 701 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

"All callers may remain anonymous and all information will be treated with strict confidentiality," said Colonel Naidu.