A senior police officer at the Algoa Park station in Gqeberha, Colonel Eugene Coetzee, is currently the subject of an internal investigation following serious allegations of misconduct, abuse of power, and widespread intimidation. The probe was triggered by the emergence of a video and a detailed whistleblower report describing a toxic work environment characterized by fear and favoritism.
The Alleged Misconduct and Video Evidence
Central to the investigation is a video allegedly filmed in the early hours of August 2, 2025, next to the Something Great restaurant. The footage reportedly shows Colonel Coetzee and a woman sergeant engaging in sexual intercourse while in uniform inside the colonel’s vehicle.
According to officers who requested anonymity, the video has created significant tension within the station. The encounter reportedly took place following an overnight operation, and the recording was later leaked by a junior officer.
Claims of Abuse of Authority and Intimidation
The internal investigation, led by a Motherwell-based commander, is also examining claims of an “environment of fear.” Whistleblowers allege that Colonel Coetzee has shouted at colleagues in public and that three officers have taken early retirement due to poor working conditions.
One specific claim involves a warrant officer who was allegedly targeted after confronting the colonel about the sex tape. This officer resigned a month later following accusations that he released a confiscated gambling machine to a shop owner during an illegal gambling operation. Although he later withdrew his resignation, he underwent a disciplinary process in May.
the colonel is accused of covering up the sergeant’s alleged role in the gambling machine incident. It is claimed the sergeant knew the machines should not have been returned because the investigation was not finalized, yet they were allegedly handed back to the owner.
Favouritism and Misuse of State Resources
The whistleblower report further alleges that Colonel Coetzee allowed specific officers to use state vehicles for personal errands. This includes one officer reportedly using a state vehicle for weekly church services in KwaDwesi.
Other allegations suggest that trips to the head office were arranged as a pretext to allow an officer to use a state vehicle to travel to a home in Qonce.
Official Response and Current Status
Police spokesperson Brig Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that SAPS management is aware of the complaints and that an internal investigation is ongoing. However, Gantana declined to provide further details, stating that no more information can be disclosed through media platforms at this time.
Colonel Coetzee declined to comment when approached. The implicated sergeant stated that internal policies prohibit her from commenting on the matter. Both officers remain at work as the investigation continues.
Potential Next Steps
Depending on the findings of the Motherwell-based commander, the SAPS management could initiate formal disciplinary hearings against the implicated officers. If the allegations of misconduct and abuse of power are substantiated, it may lead to sanctions or changes in leadership at the Algoa Park station.
The investigation may also look into whether the “squashing” of previous grievances indicates a broader pattern of administrative failure, which could lead to a review of how complaints are handled within the Eastern Cape police structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading the investigation into Colonel Eugene Coetzee?
A commander based in Motherwell has been appointed to lead the internal investigation.
What are the primary allegations against the Colonel?
The allegations include misconduct involving a junior colleague, abuse of power, intimidation of subordinates, favoritism, and the misuse of state vehicles.
When did the alleged incident in the video occur?
The video was allegedly filmed in the early hours of August 2, 2025, at the Gqeberha beachfront near the Something Good restaurant.
Do you believe internal police investigations are sufficient for addressing abuse of power, or is independent oversight necessary?
