Top South African Policeman Charged with Sexual Offences

Published 22 September 2026

Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, one of South Africa’s most senior police officers, has been charged with a range of serious offences, including sexual grooming of a 16‑year‑old, rape of an 18‑year‑old woman and trafficking. The 59‑year‑old, who had been acting as a deputy police commissioner, was briefly held at a courthouse north‑west of Johannesburg and is currently suspended.

Sibiya is expected to apply for bail on 29 September, although prosecutors are poised to oppose the request. The state has also asked the court to change his prison as indications of a possible escape plan have surfaced.

The criminal case comes as the police service is under scrutiny by the Madlanga Commission, a public inquiry into corruption and alleged collusion with criminals. Investigations have heard accusations that Sibiya received a luxury gift – reportedly 20 impalas – from a crime boss in exchange for a police contract; he has issued denials.

The inquiry, which kicked off last September, is part of a broader push to hold high‑ranking officials accountable and restore public trust in law enforcement.