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Ex-Hawks captain faces corruption charges after R30,000 and laptops vanished
Ex-Hawks captain faces corruption charges after R30,000 and laptops vanished! A former police captain and investigator with the West Rand Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) unit in Gauteng, Susanna Jacoba Muller, appeared before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday morning.
She faces multiple charges, including corruption, theft, and defeating or obstructing the administration of justice.
The court postponed the matter to January 28, allowing Muller time to appoint legal representation. This marks the latest development in a case involving serious allegations of misconduct and corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Details of the Allegations
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), widely known as the Hawks, revealed that Muller was served with a court summons on December 24, 2024, in Randfontein.
According to Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale, the summons pertains to two criminal cases filed at the Honeydew and Krugersdorp police stations in May 2023 and October 2024, respectively.
Muller, previously an investigator at the National Priority Violent Crimes (NPVC) unit, is accused of mishandling cases, misusing her position, and engaging in corruption:
- Missing Exhibits in a 2020 Case
Muller was responsible for investigating suspects linked to cash-in-transit heists in 2020. Several key exhibits, including laptops, tablets, a wallet, and R30,000 in cash, went missing under her watch.- A case docket was subsequently opened for theft and obstruction of justice.
- Misconduct in a 2023 Investigation
In another case, suspects were arrested at Naledi police station for possessing stolen vehicles and unlicensed firearms.- Muller allegedly manipulated a suspect, Oupa Moleleki, into a romantic relationship to extract information about cash-in-transit heists.
- She reportedly accepted R10,000, which was deposited into her father’s bank account. She later claimed it was part of her intelligence-gathering efforts.
Following these revelations, Muller admitted to her commander that she had taken the money, which was subsequently secured. However, further allegations surfaced, suggesting she provided information to a criminal suspect and promised assistance with bail proceedings.
Resignation and Legal Actions
Amid mounting allegations, Muller resigned from the SAPS. On December 23, 2024, court summons were issued, leading to her scheduled appearance in Randburg Magistrate’s Court. Additional charges, including money laundering and corruption, are reportedly under review by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Hawks’ Response and Commitment to Accountability
The national head of the Hawks, Lieutenant-General Godfrey Lebeya, has strongly condemned the allegations against Muller and emphasized the agency’s zero-tolerance policy toward corruption.
“We will not hesitate to take decisive action against those who betray the trust placed in them by the public,” Lebeya stated.
He further highlighted the detrimental impact of corruption on the justice system, noting that it undermines public trust and compromises the safety of communities.
“Corruption erodes the rule of law and the very foundations of our justice system. The DPCI is committed to rooting out corruption and holding accountable any individuals, regardless of rank or position, who engage in such unlawful activities,” he added.
Lebeya also issued a stern warning to law enforcement members, affirming that anyone found guilty of corrupt practices will face the full force of the law.
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
The case has drawn significant public attention, as it underscores the ongoing challenges of corruption within law enforcement ranks. Many South Africans have expressed concern over the trustworthiness of the police force, calling for stricter oversight and more robust accountability mechanisms.
Muller’s trial is expected to shed light on the extent of corruption within the SAPS and provide insight into how such cases are managed and prosecuted.
As the January 28 court date approaches, all eyes will be on the Randburg Magistrate’s Court, where the legal process will determine whether Muller will be held accountable for the serious charges leveled against her. The case also serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and accountability within institutions tasked with upholding the law.