IPID warns against false rape claims - EWN

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has warned against filing false criminal reports.

This follows the arrest of an 18-year-old woman for opening a false rape case against an off-duty Kimberley-based officer.

The woman appeared in the Kuruman Magistrates Court on Friday and was released on warning.

The case was postponed to 16 October to allow her to obtain legal representation.

IPID said that the alleged rape incident took place at a guest house in Kuruman earlier this week.

The 24-year-old constable was arrested and faced a charge of rape.

IPID's Lizzy Suping said, "Prior to the police officer’s court appearance, the woman informed the 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Suping said that the case against the 24-year-old constable was withdrawn in court.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 sensitise 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."

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