Fourteen suspects, aged 34 to 59, were arrested on Monday in Mpumalanga for issuing learner and driver’s licenses improperly
Their arrests followed an investigation conducted by the Hawks, in partnership with the National Road Traffic Management Corporation and Crime Intelligence, focusing on Sabie, Graskop, Lydenburg, and Verena.
The operation aimed at uncovering traffic officials who conspired with driving school operators to issue licenses without adhering to proper procedures.
According to Provincial Hawks spokesperson Dineo Sekgotodi, the Hawks launched an undercover operation called “Kwanele” in 2021, using unconventional methods to obtain licenses from corrupt officials and driving school operators.
Sekgotodi noted that during the licensing process, applicants were assisted or given answers by examiners in collusion with driving school owners. “Drivers’ licenses were allegedly issued without tests after applicants paid large sums of money,” she added.
Following the investigation, arrest warrants were issued and executed simultaneously at various testing stations. The suspects were arrested and charged, with some appearing in court for initial hearings and others remanded in custody pending further court appearances on Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
The suspects face charges of fraud, corruption, and violations of the national road traffic act.
“We, the Hawks along with other law enforcement agencies, are committed to investigating and apprehending all corrupt officials within the system, without fear or favor,” he stated. Gerber also encouraged the public to report instances of corruption, emphasizing that bribery cannot thrive if people refuse to pay for fraudulent licenses.
“Officials must perform their duties as required and not exploit their positions for personal gain,” he added.
What measures do you think should be taken to prevent corruption in licensing processes, and how can the public effectively support these efforts?
No comments:
Post a Comment