South Africa’s deputy police chief quits amid sex offence charges
South Africa’s deputy police chief, Lt Gen Shadrack Sibiya, has resigned three weeks after being charged with sexual offences. His departure comes as the police service faces scrutiny at a public inquiry into alleged corruption and links with criminals.
Sibiya faces allegations that he sexually groomed a 16-year-old girl, raped an 18-year-old woman and trafficked someone. He denies the charges, though he says he had sex with the 18-year-old and that it was consensual; he has been held in custody since his bail application was denied. Police say his departure is treated as a dishonourable discharge. The inquiry has also heard an allegation that he received 20 impalas from an alleged criminal kingpin in connection with a police contract.
- South Africa’s deputy police chief has resigned while facing sexual offence charges.
- Sibiya denies the charges and remains in custody.
- His case unfolds amid a wider inquiry into police corruption.
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South Africa's police service has been facing serious allegations of corruption and links to organised crime. A public inquiry is examining these claims, placing the force under intense scrutiny at a time when questions about its leadership and accountability are increasingly pressing.
Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya held the position of deputy police chief, one of the country's most senior law enforcement posts. His departure following criminal charges therefore represents a significant blow to the police force during a period when public confidence is already being tested.
The case reflects broader concerns about misconduct amongst senior officers. The ongoing inquiry has heard various allegations involving those in positions of power, intensifying pressure on the force to demonstrate it can hold its own personnel to account.
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Originally published by BBC World as “South Africa’s deputy police chief resigns after being charged with sexual offences”.