KURUMAN – An 18-year-old woman was arrested in Kuruman by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) after she made a false rape accusation.
The young woman claimed a police constable raped her at a guest house on 23 September.
IPID's Lizzy Suping said the 24-year-old Constable was arrested on 24 September 2026 and faced a charge of rape.
"Prior to the police officer’s court appearance today, on 25 September 2026, the 18-year-old woman informed the IPID investigator that she had filed a false statement, because the officer failed to pay her, the agreed R400 that was due to her following their consensual sex," Suping said in a statement.
A case of perjury was opened against the 18-year-old woman for deliberately lying under oath and abusing state resources.
The rape case against the 24-year-old Constable was withdrawn in court.
"The actions of the 18-year-old woman undermine the integrity of the justice system and divert critical investigative capacity away from genuine cases.
"As IPID we would like to sensitize our communities that false reporting will not be tolerated, and decisive action will be taken against individuals who attempt to misuse the justice system for personal gain," Suping added.