A police captain has been arrested for allegedly defrauding millions of rands from a unit.

A 53-year-old captain attached to the police’s Protection and Security Services (PSS) unit has been arrested for allegedly defrauding it of millions of rand.

The arrest follows an internal investigation that uncovered discrepancies and suspicious transactions within the unit.

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the investigation was initiated by the police’s Financial Management Services after irregularities were detected on the system.

The officer, employed in the finance section of the PSS, allegedly exploited his access to the system to withdraw large sums of money.

Mathe said the officer allegedly manipulated the system to withdraw cash, claiming it was intended for travel expenses for close protectors within the PSS.

However, investigations revealed that the intended recipients never received the funds, as they were allegedly instead withdrawn in lump sums by the officer.

“Following the discovery, the officer was suspended and later arrested. A case of fraud was registered at the Sunnyside police station, and the internal departmental investigation has confirmed the alleged misconduct,” Mathe said.

The officer is expected to appear in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, facing fraud charges.

National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola commended the officers who uncovered the alleged criminal activity.

He emphasised the importance of accountability within the police, stating: “Any member found to be engaging in corrupt activities will face the full might of the law. There will be no exceptions, and no compromise. Accountability is not optional. It is a fundamental pillar of our service.”