MPUMALANGA – Fourteen suspects, aged between 34 and 59, were arrested on Monday, 16 September 2024, in a large-scale, multidisciplinary intelligence-driven operation.
The arrests were made by a joint team from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) Mpumalanga, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), and Crime Intelligence at various locations, including Sabie, Graskop, Lydenburg, and Verena. The charges include fraud, corruption, and violations of the National Road Traffic Act.
The arrests followed a lengthy investigation led by the Hawks’ Mpumalanga-based Serious Corruption Investigation unit, in collaboration with the National Road Traffic Management Corporation.
The investigation uncovered a shocking scheme involving driver’s license testing examiners colluding with driving school owners to issue learner’s and driver’s licenses without conducting the required tests.
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Operation “Kwanele” Investigation Findings
The operation, named “Kwanele,” began in 2021 when Crime Intelligence uncovered information regarding widespread corruption at driver testing centers. Examiners and driving school operators were found to be facilitating fraudulent learner’s and driver’s licenses for applicants in exchange for large sums of money.
During the illicit process, examiners assisted applicants by providing them with answers during learner’s license exams.
In some cases, driver’s licenses were issued without any practical test being conducted. The investigation revealed that these unlawful activities were part of a wider network of corruption.
Arrests and Legal Action
On Monday, 16 September, warrants of arrest were executed at various testing stations simultaneously, leading to the capture of the 14 suspects. The arrested individuals face charges of fraud, corruption, and contravening the National Road Traffic Act.
Some of the suspects have already appeared in court, while others remain in custody, awaiting their next appearance on Tuesday, 17 September 2024.
Head of the Hawks Speaks Out Against Corruption
The Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Gerber, and the CEO of the RTMC, expressed their satisfaction with the successful outcome of the operation.
Major General Gerber praised the teamwork and dedication of the law enforcement agencies involved in the operation, stating,
“As the Hawks, together with other law enforcement agencies, we are committed to investigating and arresting corrupt officials without fear or favor. Corruption cannot survive if the public refuses to participate in it.”
Gerber also urged the public to report any incidents of corruption and cautioned that individuals who pay bribes could face prosecution. “Officials must perform the duties they are paid for and not abuse their positions for personal gain,” he added, vowing that further arrests would be made as the investigation continues.
This successful operation marks a significant step in the ongoing fight against corruption in South Africa’s road traffic management system.
More Arrests Expected
Authorities warn that more arrests may follow as the investigation deepens. The public is reminded to report any suspicious activity or attempts to solicit bribes to law enforcement agencies.
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