South Africa's Top Police Officer Faces Sexual Assault and Trafficking Charges

Lt Gen Shadrack Sibiya, formerly the Deputy Police Commissioner of South Africa’s National Police Service, has been charged with sexually grooming a 16‑year‑old girl and raping an 18‑year‑old woman. He also faces a trafficking charge that may lead to further arrests.

In a brief court appearance north‑west of Johannesburg on 22 September, Sibiya denied the allegations but was deprived of comments. He is due to appear again on 29 September for a bail application, which prosecutors expect will be opposed. Meanwhile, the state has requested that the court move him to a more secure prison because there are concerns about a potential escape plan.

The case has come to light amid the Madlanga Commission, a broad inquiry into corruption and alleged collusion with criminals within the police. The inquiry has heard accusations that Sibiya accepted a gift of 20 impalas from an alleged criminal kingpin in return for a police contract; Sibiya denied that claim.

Across a digital virtual newsroom, journalists are engaging with this developing story by attending live press conferences and reviewing evidence in immersive environments. 

Lt Gen Shadrack Sibiya testifying in court
Lt Gen Shadrack Sibiya giving evidence at an inquiry into police corruption.

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