Russel Morena

Russel Morena

A corrupt Parktown police inspector was found guilty yesterday of extortion, intimidation, bribery and defeating the ends of justice.

Johannesburg magistrate P du Plessis said: "The court has the overall picture that the accused was fully aware of what he should have done in his power as a policeman to help society. Instead he abused it for his own gain."

"I am happy that the matter is closed. At last the man has been exposed for what he did," said chief complainant Michael Lingwood.

Sean Twala will face other charges of fraud, theft, extortion, defeating the ends of justice and corruption with co-accused Inspector Tello Jonas Mota in August.

Du Plessis said the evidence led in court proved that Twala was guilty of the charges.

The state alleged that Twala was part of a task team investigating a man suspected of illegally occupying residential buildings in Johannesburg and renting them out.

While the man was in custody Twala allegedly tried to get a R5000 bribe from the suspect's wife.

Superintendent Gregory Beck of the Gauteng organised crime unit said he was happy that justice had prevailed.

"This should send a clear message to police officers not to involve themselves in criminal activities," said Beck.

Twala's R5000 bail has been extended until July 7, when he will be sentenced.