Nine traffic officers have been arrested in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal in a pre-festive season peak travel crackdown on fraud and corruption, said the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) on Wednesday.
This as two officers from the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) in Gauteng were arrested for soliciting a bribe of R1 500 from a taxi driver. During the encounter, the driver immediately alerted the RTMC’s National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit (NTACU) and a successful sting operation was conducted, resulting in the arrest of the officers.
The officers are set to appear in court today on corruption charges.
In another case, seven officers were arrested in Newcastle. The seven include five traffic officers employed by the provincial Road Traffic Inspectorate and two officers from the Newcastle municipality.
They were arrested in a joint operation conducted by NTACU and the Hawks following complaints from members of the public regarding the conduct of traffic officers on the road. An undercover operation was conducted and the seven were arrested for fraud and corruption.
According to the RTMC, these incidents highlight the ongoing battle against corruption in South Africa, particularly within law enforcement agencies.
The NTACU continues to work tirelessly to root out corrupt officials and restore public trust in traffic law enforcement.
“It is important for citizens to report all corruption they witness or experience to ensure corrupt officials are brought to book,” said the RTMC.
It added that it has taken a firm stance against fraud and corruption and will continue to investigate and prosecute those who engage in such activities without fear or favour.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected acts of fraud, corruption and malfeasance to ntacu@rtmc.co.za or by WhatsApp to 083 293 7989.
