CORRUPTION LANDS FORMER POLICE OFFICER IN PRISON

13 AUGUST 2025

CORRUPTION LANDS FORMER POLICE OFFICER IN PRISON

Limpopo, South Africa – The Polokwane Specialised Commercial Crimes Court has convicted and sentenced former police officer Godfrey Avhasei Matheledza (41) of Muila Village to 16 years’ imprisonment for two counts of corruption. The sentences will run concurrently, meaning he will serve an effective eight years in prison.

The second accused in the matter, Fulufhelo Mathada, died before the trial commenced.

The court heard that in July 2014, in Morebeng, the accused used a marked state vehicle to escort individuals transporting illicit cigarettes through their policing area. In return, they received gratification of R1 830.00 from the smugglers. This allowed the offenders to evade arrest and avoid law enforcement in terms of the Customs and Excise Act No. 91 of 1964. An undercover police investigation subsequently led to the arrest of the officers.

During sentencing, the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Malope Maponya argued that the accused failed to uphold Section 205(3) of the Constitution, which outlines the objectives of the police service, including the prevention, combating, and investigation of crime. The State further argued that corruption undermines constitutional rights, endangers the stability and security of society, weakens democratic institutions, erodes ethical values, and jeopardises sustainable development, the rule of law, and government credibility.

Limpopo Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Ivy Thenga, welcomed the sentence, stating that it is adequate to serve as a deterrent to potential offenders. She also commended the prosecution team and all stakeholders involved in securing the conviction.

Issued by:

Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi

NPA Regional Spokesperson, Limpopo Division

Email: mmalabi@npa.gov.za

Cell: 074 823 3608