Fake ‘SAPS Colonel’ Walks into Police Station Asking for a Ride — and Leaves in Handcuffs

A 52-year-old man who boldly walked into a North West police station pretending to be a high-ranking officer has been remanded in custody after his ruse was quickly uncovered. Sinki Lukas Msiba, claiming to be a colonel from Pretoria, asked for a lift to Bultfontein, saying his car had broken down. But vigilant officers grew suspicious, checked his story, and arrested him on the spot for impersonating a police officer. This incident, which unfolded on 18 November 2025 at Bloemhof police station, highlights the growing problem of fraudsters targeting law enforcement for personal gain.

Msiba appeared in the Bloemhof Magistrate’s Court the next day, where he was ordered to stay behind bars until 8 December 2025 for further probes. As South Africa grapples with rising cases of police impersonation, this arrest serves as a warning to those trying to exploit state resources. Police leaders have praised the quick thinking of the officers, noting that such vigilance helps protect sensitive information and prevents bigger threats.

The Impersonator’s Bold Move at Bloemhof Station

On the evening of 18 November 2025, Sinki Lukas Msiba entered the Bloemhof police station in the North West province, confidently introducing himself as a colonel based in Pretoria. He explained that his vehicle had broken down in Warrenton, a town about 100 kilometres away, and requested transport to Bultfontein, roughly 50 kilometres from Bloemhof.

According to North West police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, the officers on duty listened to his story but something didn’t add up. They decided to run preliminary checks, which soon revealed that Msiba was not a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS) at all. “The vigilant members questioned Msiba, conducted a preliminary investigation and eventually established that the accused was not a police officer. He was immediately placed under arrest,” Mokgwabone said.

This swift action prevented what could have been a breach of security, as impersonators often seek access to police facilities for ulterior motives, such as gathering information or using resources illegally. Msiba’s attempt failed spectacularly, turning a simple request for a ride into an immediate arrest and court appearance.

Court Appearance and Remand in Custody

The following day, 19 November 2025, Msiba appeared before the Bloemhof Magistrate’s Court on charges of impersonating a police officer. The magistrate ordered him to remain in custody pending further investigation, with his next court date set for 8 December 2025. This gives prosecutors time to build a stronger case, possibly including checks on Msiba’s background and any prior similar offences.
Impersonating a police officer is a serious crime in South Africa, punishable under the South African Police Service Act. Offenders can face fines or imprisonment, depending on the intent and harm caused.

In Msiba’s case, his actions could have compromised police operations if the officers hadn’t been alert.
Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo commended the Bloemhof team for their sharp response. He noted that police stations are increasingly targeted by fraudsters looking to exploit trust in the uniform. “The arrest should send a clear message that police will act decisively against anyone attempting to abuse state resources,” Naidoo said.

Rising Trend of Police Impersonation in South Africa

Msiba’s case is not isolated. South Africa has seen a worrying rise in incidents where criminals pose as police officers to commit crimes or gain advantages. Just last year, a bogus police officer was arrested in Pretoria Central for kidnapping undocumented foreign nationals and extorting R9,000 for their release.
In that case, the suspect offered a lift to two foreign nationals heading to Brits but deviated to Pretoria, claiming to be an officer. He held them against their will and forced them to call family for money. Alert crime prevention officers spotted the suspicious vehicle and intervened, leading to his arrest for impersonation, extortion, and kidnapping.

Such scams prey on vulnerable people, like immigrants or those in need of help, and erode public trust in genuine officers. Police have urged the public to verify badges, IDs, and vehicles when approached by anyone claiming to be law enforcement. In Msiba’s instance, his request for transport raised red flags, as official police resources aren’t typically used for personal rides.

Experts say these impersonations often stem from a desire to access restricted areas or intimidate others. In rural areas like Bloemhof, where resources are limited, such tricks can be particularly effective if not caught early. The North West province, with its mix of urban and rural settings, has reported similar cases, prompting increased training for officers on spotting fakes.

Community and Police Vigilance Key to Prevention

Naidoo stressed that vigilance from both police and the community is crucial in combating these crimes. “Police stations have increasingly been targeted by impersonators seeking access to sensitive information,” he said. He encouraged citizens to report suspicious behaviour and always ask for proof of identity.

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