BIG CLAIM OVER LEAK OF STATUS

A CRIME intelligence police officer is claiming R420 000 in damages from the SAPS and two other officers after they allegedly disclosed classified information from her personal file.

Their act caused a false rumour to spread that she and her husband had both tested positive for HIV.

The lieutenant-colonel, who cannot be identified, turned to the high court in Pretoria, saying she had been defamed and her reputation damaged.

She claimed R350 000 in this regard, and a further R70 000 for medical expenses. She said she was suffering from major depression.

She told the court that her personal information should never have been leaked, and what was stated on her file was taken out of context.

It was claimed that some of the information was leaked during her interview for a “top secret” clearance.

The false rumour that she had tested positive for HIV spread among her colleagues. It is claimed that one of the officers who typed the record of the interview was involved in leaking what was recorded on her file.

The two officers suspected of starting the rumour were demoted and sent to other divisions, where they were to handle “less sensitive” issues.

They objected and said they were never found guilty, nor were there any disciplinary proceedings against them. Both denied the accusation.

In a report, the woman’s psychologist said the officer felt humiliated, traumatised and anxious about what was said about her behind her back. She struggled to cope at work and look her colleagues in the eye.

The matter continues.