SAPS Constable’s Car Purchase Worth Up to R480k in TikTok Video Sparks Debate

• A member of the South African Police Service (SAPS) had a reason to celebrate in a video where she was being presented with her big girl purchase
• The young woman, who was wearing her SAPS uniform, showed up at a car dealership to fetch the treat she bought herself
• Online users flooded the comment section of the video showing the SAPS member making a new purchase with their hot takes about how she spent her salary
• Briefly News spoke to financial expert Fulufhelani Mashapha for her advice to young professionals navigating the tension between lifestyle goals and financial responsibility

An SAPS constable made a big change in her life with a purchase. The woman went to a car dealership where she finally got her hands on a brand new whip.

The video of the constable and her purchase's price tag went viral on TikTok. The video of the woman getting her car received more than 15,000 likes.

SAPS officer buys a flashy car

In a TikTok video posted by @siboniso.mavimbela, a constable showed up at a car dealership to fetch her 2025 Kia Sonet. Kia's SUV is valued between R299,996 for the 1.5 LS manual to R444,995 for the 1.5 SX. The SAPS officer looked delighted when the car dealership employee did the grand reveal of her car. The clip shows the woman driving out of her dealership with her brand-new car.

Kia has become a popular choice in South Africa thanks to its mix of affordability, reliability, and stylish design. Models like the Picanto, Rio, and Sonet are favourites for offering great value without compromising on features. Kia’s strong warranty (5 years/unlimited km) and wide dealer support also help build trust with local buyers. The brand consistently ranks among the top 10 in SA vehicle sales, with over 1,400 units sold monthly as of mid-2025. Compact SUVs like the Sonet have especially boosted Kia’s appeal by offering space, comfort, and tech suited to both city and family life.

Watch the video of the SAPS officer's reaction to the car below:

Briefly News caught up with financial guru Fulufhelani Mashapha to share her insights on how young professionals can strike a balance between ambitious lifestyle choices and smart financial management. She explained:

"Focus on building your emergency fund, start investing early, manage your debt wisely, live below your means, and treat yourself occasionally—but always within your budget."

SA applauds SAPS constable's car

People shared messages congratulating the SAPS officer on her brand-new purchase. Others defended her from people who criticised her for getting the pricey car brand new.

sabelotyholweni2020@gmail.com said:

"Imagine a constable driving such a great car, while detectives and the captain are asking for a hike. Jealousy is bound to come up!"

user6558309220170 shared:

"Me I'm an officer of the law for more than 10 years but I don't have car. Yet, you, Constable, you are having beautiful shining car, njani?"

Dave gaming added:

"My sister congratulation me, but I believe SAPS hates officers on social media in their uniform."

KhaajoHlako cheered:

"Congratulations, my colleague, you proved gore whether you are a constable or what, you can make it🥰🥰 happy for you girl."

robinhood_thelegend112 was sarcastic:

"Congrats on your car. Well done on saving all the cold drink money and getting a new car."

Steve defended the constable:

"Not all people have to pay black tax, some people enjoy their salary 🔥"

realthugs123 was sincere:

"Congratulations constable God's blessings on your car and career."

Other Briefly News stories about professionals' cars

• A teacher arrived at work driving a new car, and her students immediately noticed and joyously celebrated her purchase in a wholesome video.
• Online users cheered for a petrol attendant who got emotional after being presented with the new car that they bought.
• In another story, a nurse celebrated that she got her hands on her first-ever car, and many people joined in to congratulate her.
• A professional in the mining industry made the grand reveal of her new car in a video that went viral on TikTok.

Updated by Hilary Sekgota, Human Interest HOD at Briefly News.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News