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The recent arrest of five soldiers in Limpopo for allegedly robbing illegal Zimbabwean immigrants, was a "glowing example" of attempts to root out corruption, the SA National Defence Force said on Friday.

SANDF chief General Siphiwe Nyanda expressed concern that an impression may have been created that the defence force had distanced itself from the allegations.

In fact, the arrest of the five was the result of a joint investigation by the Military Police Academy (MPA) and the SA Police Service, he said.

The MPA, under Nyanda's instruction, was actively pursuing wrongdoers in the SANDF, a statement said.

"I wish to reiterate that in this specific case, the law will take its course and the full weight of the law will be brought to bear on those found guilty," Nyanda said.

He stressed that the SANDF would never tolerate, condone, justify or conceal any illegal or irregular actions of its members.

"Our members are not above the law and therefore when they are proven guilty of transgressing the laws of our country, or the military disciplinary code, or the code of conduct, they will be dealt with very severely."

The five were reportedly arrested for allegedly robbing Zimbabweans illegally entering the country and raping women along the border with Limpopo.

Detectives allegedly confiscated bicycles, cigarettes and blankets found in a store room at the Madimbo military base.

At the time, police said the search would continue for diamonds, gold and platinum also alleged to have been taken from Zimbabweans. More arrests were expected.

SANDF spokesman Major Nico Allie said the five men appeared in the Masisi Magistrate's Court on Wednesday charged with the possession of stolen property.

The men's names or their next court date could not be determined.