Westonaria, Gauteng – A 31-year-old former West Rand traffic official is set to face charges of corruption in the Westonaria Magistrates’ court after being arrested by the West Rand-based Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation. The suspect’s apprehension on May 6, 2023, comes in response to a tip-off received by the Hawks regarding alleged corrupt activities involving Metro Police, Provincial Traffic police, SAPS, and Municipal Traffic Police in the Gauteng region.
Prompted by the alarming reports, the Hawks swiftly initiated a covert operation to root out corruption within the traffic enforcement sector. Undercover agents were strategically placed in the field to conduct buy-and-bust operations, seeking to expose any illicit activities.
In one such operation, a Hawks agent was accosted by the suspect at the intersection of N12 and R28. The traffic official allegedly extorted a sum of R100.00 from the agent, citing the absence of a front number plate on the agent’s vehicle. The agent, complying with the operation’s protocol, provided crucial feedback to the investigators and led them back to the scene. With their support, the suspect was identified and confronted.
Despite attempting to evade arrest, the traffic official was pursued and successfully apprehended by the determined Hawks operatives.
The suspect is scheduled to make his first appearance in the Westonaria Magistrates’ court on January 16, 2023. The charges he faces are expected to shed light on the extent of corruption within the traffic enforcement ranks and serve as a stern warning to those contemplating engaging in such illicit activities.
The Hawks, known for their unwavering commitment to upholding justice, have reiterated their dedication to rooting out corruption and maintaining the integrity of law enforcement agencies. The upcoming court proceedings will play a crucial role in demonstrating that corruption within the ranks will not be tolerated, and those involved will be held accountable for their actions.