The deputy head of South Africa’s police, Shadrack Sibiya, has stepped down from his high-ranking position amid severe allegations encompassing corruption and sexual misconduct. While the official continues to deny all wrongdoing, the surrounding controversies severely undermined his institutional standing.

Sibiya was originally scheduled to face a formal disciplinary hearing, but his legal representatives intervened at the eleventh hour, tendering his resignation just as the proceedings were set to commence.

According to statements published on social media by a police spokesperson, authorities categorized Sibiya’s departure as a “dishonourable discharge.” This designation stems directly from the unresolved disciplinary measures that were actively pending against him.

The embattled official had already been suspended from active duty since September of the previous year. He is currently being held in a correctional facility following his arrest last month on allegations involving the rape and grooming of a minor, with his bail application postponed until October 13.

Furthermore, the former deputy police chief has been a central figure in a judicial commission of inquiry probing systemic corruption within South African law enforcement and alleged networks with organized crime. During the commission's hearings, accusations emerged that Sibiya accepted substantial cash sums and gifts from criminal actors, claims which he has consistently disputed.

Source: www.aljazeera.com