A group of suspected driver’s licence fraudsters are expected to line up in the dock on Monday.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RMTC), five people were arrested in Lephalale in a joint operation by the RTMC and the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations on Friday afternoon.
"Another four suspects were arrested over the weekend," said RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane.
He said the suspects include a Management Representative (Supervisor), examiners of driver's licences, administration clerks, and driving school instructors.
He said another group of seven accused who were arrested in December 2019 will appear at Giyani Commercial Crime Court in Limpopo for continuation of their trial.
The seven were arrested at the Mutale Driving Licence Testing Centre in Thohoyandou.
The accused namely: ME Khangale, T Tshikalange, R Rammenu, KS Netshimboni, MB Matsila, MJ Netshizwi and PM Mudau are facing charges of fraud and corruption.
"They are out on bail of R10,000 each. Their arrests also followed a community outcry about alleged corruption at the respective testing stations."
Zwane said the RTMC in collaboration with the Hawks, embarked on investigations and it was revealed that driver’s licences were sold at a minimum of R8,600 per applicant.
"After lengthy court proceedings, the State is expected to wrap up its case in this matter this week."
Last month, in a separate incident, seven officials were convicted and sentenced for fraud and corruption in that they issued roadworthy certificates for vehicles that did not comply.
The incident took place in the Phalala Testing Station in Lephalale in Limpopo in October 2019.
The accused are Pieter Frederick Francois Scutte, 67, Marisca Erasmus,24, Lebogang Rapetsoa ,29, Democracy Vhutolo Khangale,35, Thapelo Kgositsile Medupi,31, Makwena Silas Mashala, 23, and Mphokoane Nicol Medupi, 30, appeared in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court and found guilty of 51 counts of fraud.
They were sentenced to pay R20,000 or five years imprisonment each.
Members of the public who wish to report fraud, bribery and corruption can confidentiality send a WhatsApp to (083) 293-7989 or email to [email protected]
IOL News