former police officer

Andre Theron was arrested in Bloemfontein for pretending to be a Brigadier at the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit. Photo: Free State Hawks

Former police officer arrested for pretending to be a Hawks Brigadier

The former police officer who resigned in 1993 was arrested for fraud and the impersonation of a police official.

former police officer

Andre Theron was arrested in Bloemfontein for pretending to be a Brigadier at the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit. Photo: Free State Hawks

A former police officer was arrested in Bloemfontein for pretending to be a Brigadier at the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit.

The 52-year-old man, Andre Theron, appeared before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday on charges of fraud and impersonation of a police official.

TIP-OFF LEADS TO THE FORMER POLICE OFFICER’S ARREST

Theron was arrested on Tuesday by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team together with the K9 Unit in Bloemfontein.

Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team received information on Wednesday, 11 May 2022 about the suspect.

“It is alleged that the suspect claimed he was in a K9 Unit with his dog, and he intended to search the premises of one of the people who tipped off the police,”

said Hawks spokesperson Captain Christopher Singo.

He said, Theron, told the owner that he had to search the premises as it is concerning drug information. 

The owner of the premises during the search demanded a search warrant from Theron which he failed to produce. 

COMMUNITY MEMBERS URGED TO COME FORWARD

Singo said during Theron’s arrest, police seized ten A-rifle firearms including an old police uniform. 

“Further investigation revealed that Theron fraudulently joined Trots Pellissier organisation, a residential forum. He also told its members that he is a police officer.

“It was also discovered that the suspect [Theron] was a police officer and he resigned in 1993,”

said Captain Singo.

The Hawks’ are also calling on the Free State community to come forward with information that can also assist with the ongoing investigation of people who impersonate police officers.

This includes those who might have been robbed by the suspect or whose premises were searched unlawfully by the bogus police officer, Theron. 

People can contact Investigating Officer Captain Chop Putter on 082 ‪784 4188‬.

Alternatively, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, the nearest police station or submit information through the MySAPS App.

Callers may opt to remain anonymous and any information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

Theron’s case was postponed to 30 May for a formal bail application. Theron will remain in custody until then. 

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