Police unions have expressed outrage over allegations of workplace bullying at Sunnyside Police Station in Tshwane, following reports linking a senior officer’s conduct to a colleague’s tragic death.
The reaction comes after a report claimed that at least three officers described a pattern of harassment, intimidation and ill-treatment at the station, allegedly creating a toxic working environment.
Alleged link to officer’s death
According to the claims, Lieutenant-Colonel SB Masekela died on 20 April 2026 after reportedly being belittled at work earlier that day. The incident has intensified calls for accountability and raised serious concerns about internal conditions within the station.
Union calls for suspension
The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union has called for the immediate suspension of station commander Brigadier Matshidiso Kgoadi pending a full investigation into the allegations.
In a statement, the union said it views the matter with deep concern, stressing that both the alleged workplace conditions and the death of Masekela require urgent attention.
“We note with deep concern the serious allegations raised by members at Sunnyside SAPS regarding working conditions and leadership conduct at the station, as well as the tragic death of Lieutenant-Colonel SB Masekela.”
POPCRU confirmed that it has already deployed a shop steward at local level to support affected members and ensure that all processes are handled in line with labour relations procedures.
Investigation underway
The South African Police Service is expected to investigate the allegations as pressure mounts from unions and the public for transparency and accountability.
The case has once again placed the spotlight on workplace conditions within law enforcement, with growing calls for stronger oversight and support systems for officers.
