EAST LONDON – A police officer has been arrested following a five-month investigation into allegations that he stole money and personal belongings from a woman he had detained on drug-related charges.
Warrant Officer Johannes Vlooh (47), a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), appeared briefly at the East London Magistrate’s Court last week on charges of fraud and theft. He was released on R2,000 bail, with the case postponed to Monday, July 7, 2025, for further investigation.
According to a police media statement, the officer allegedly arrested a businesswoman on drug-related charges in January 2025. During the arrest, Vlooh reportedly forced the woman to access her banking app while in his presence. While she remained in police custody, approximately R54,000 disappeared from her bank account.
During an ongoing investigation, police also confiscated several household items at Vlooh’s residence. These items were later identified by the victim as her personal belongings.
Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, praised the work of the investigating team.
“We appreciate the display of diligence by the SAPS Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit,” said Kupiso. “No matter what position one holds or the unit the person is attached to in the SAPS, nobody is above the law.”
Kupiso emphasized that the police service expects all its employees to serve with diligence and honor, adding that “any unlawful conduct will have severe consequences.”
