A SAPS Forensic Science Laboratory captain has been arrested in Pretoria on charges of defeating the ends of justice after a targeted operation by the Commission’s Recommendations Task Team.
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A South African Police Service (SAPS) captain attached to the Forensic Science Laboratory is expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Monday following his arrest in connection with allegations of defeating the ends of justice linked to several high-profile murder investigations.
The officer was arrested at his Pretoria residence on Friday during an operation conducted by the Commission’s Recommendations Task Team, amid an ongoing investigation into alleged interference in sensitive criminal cases and evidence presented before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the arrest and said investigators had linked the captain to allegations involving the manipulation or mishandling of evidence connected to prominent murder probes currently under scrutiny.
Mathe said authorities also confiscated state property during the operation, including ballistic reports, ammunition and other evidential material believed to be linked to active investigations.
The arrest forms part of broader investigations stemming from concerns raised before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry regarding alleged misconduct and irregularities within elements of law enforcement and forensic processes.
The SAPS captain is expected to formally face charges relating to defeating the ends of justice when he appears in court on Monday, while investigations remain ongoing.
DAILY NEWS