Police arrest 8 permit issuers and officers for driver’s license fraud | The citizen

At least eight licensing officers and officers have been arrested in a crackdown on driver’s license fraud and corruption in the Free State.

It is understood the officers were arrested on Thursday during an operation by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) National Traffic Anti-Corruption unit in collaboration with Crime Intelligence and organized crime units of the South African Police Services (SAPS).

‘Recruitment’

RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said the arrest was carried out simultaneously at three locations in Petrusburg (Free State), Barkley West and Kimberly in the Northern Cape.

“It is alleged that the officers recruited learner and driving license applicants in the Free State Province and liaised with department officials and licensing authorities in the Northern Cape to have driving licenses issued while the applicants did not undergo the required testing process.

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“This comes after an intelligence-led operation called ‘Commando’ exposed deep-seated fraud and corruption extending to small rural towns in the countryside. A vehicle that the officers allegedly used to commit the crime was seized as part of evidence,” Zwane said.

At least eight licensing officers and officers have been arrested in a crackdown on driver’s license fraud and corruption in the Free State. #Driver’s license fraud #FreeState @TheCitizen_News pic.twitter.com/b804qcNjZL

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Arrests

CEO of RTMC, lawyer Makhosini Msibi, welcomed the arrests of the officials who undermined the rule of law.

“They reflect the government’s continued efforts to root out corruption at licensing centers and within traffic law enforcement. This success followed the arrest of four suspects who allegedly produced fake license plates and operator cards in Mtubatuba, Kwa-Zulu Natal.”

Driver’s license fraud

Last month, at least 28 licensing and driving school operators were arrested in Mpumalanga and 11 in Limpopo on corruption and related charges.

Msibi congratulated investigators for their efforts to eliminate threats undermining safety on the country’s roads.

“Our officers must intensify their work as we approach the festive season to help the country reduce the factors that lead to road accidents and fatalities,” Msibi said.

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