KIMBERLEY – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape has issued an urgent warning to the public following the spread of several “fake” videos on social media that use the image of a high-ranking police official in controversial skits.
The Office of the Provincial Commissioner confirmed that it is aware of at least two videos circulating on TikTok depicting Brigadier Schalk Andrews, the District Commissioner of Namakwa. Authorities have officially declared the content to be fraudulent and a direct violation of the SAPS Act.
One of the videos currently trending involves a scripted comedic scene featuring a TikTok creator and an individual portrayed as Brigadier Andrews.
In the video a man approaches the officer, claiming his wife has been “taken by a Zimbabwean” and pleading for help. A woman interrupts the conversation, accusing the husband of neglecting his wife and choosing alcohol over his family. The video concludes with the officer laughing and making a derogatory comment regarding foreign nationals and money.
The video uses a split-screen format and includes reaction clips of audiences laughing, further framing the senior officer in a satirical and unprofessional light.
SAPS leadership has taken a “strong stance” against the unauthorized use of police members’ photos and identities.
Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien and Colonel Cherelle Ehlers, spokespersons, noted that such content is specifically designed to tarnish the reputation of Brigadier Andrews and the professional image of the SAPS.
“The SAPS has urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified and damaging videos of this nature,” they stated, emphasizing that the personification of members for such content is a criminal contravention.
The Provincial Commissioner’s office released two separate statements on December 28 and 29, 2025, as more videos surfaced. The public is encouraged to report any further instances of these videos and to avoid forwarding them on messaging platforms like WhatsApp.
For enquiries or to report social media misconduct involving SAPS personnel, contact Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien at 082 555 1800 or Colonel Cherelle Ehlers at 082 448 5179.
