The Nelson Mandela Bay District Crime Combatting Unit (CCU) has arrested three individuals for allegedly attempting to bribe police officers with nearly R20,000 following a traffic stop on Tuesday evening.
According to police reports, members of the SAPS Crime Combatting Unit were conducting duties on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, at approximately 19:30 when they received intelligence regarding a white Nissan Magnite traveling from Port Alfred towards Gqeberha. The vehicle was reportedly displaying false registration plates.
Officers responded and intercepted the vehicle on the N2 highway near the Coega Industrial Area. Upon inspection, authorities confirmed that the registration plates and licence disc did not correspond with the vehicle’s description.
While members were conducting further investigations into the matter, the occupants allegedly attempted to bribe the officers with cash amounting to R19,500. The incident was immediately reported to the unit Commander and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) for guidance on handling the matter.
Subsequently, all three occupants—a 33-year-old male, and two females aged 47 and 54—were arrested on charges of bribery. The vehicle was impounded for further investigation.
The arrests underscore the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) firm stance against criminal activities that undermine justice, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
The motive for the attempted bribe remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. All relevant role players have been informed. The three suspects are expected to appear before the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court soon.