Former Police Constable Convicted of Conspiracy and Firearms Act Violation in Free State

FREE STATE, South Africa – A former police constable, Noxolo Perseverance Job, has been convicted on serious charges of conspiracy to commit an armed robbery and violation of firearms control laws in Bloemfontein. The incident, which demonstrates the ongoing struggle against corruption within South African law enforcement, has culminated in a significant judiciary finding.

Noxolo Job, 39, who was previously attached to the Protection and Security Services (PSS) in Bloemfontein, crafted a nefarious plan to execute an armed robbery within her jurisdiction. In a brazen disregard for the law and public safety, Job was discovered to have orchestrated the recruitment of accomplices tasked with stealing firearms from the PSS offices' safe.

Further intensifying her misconduct, Job provided her official firearm to aid the prospective robbers in their criminal endeavour, expecting a payment of R50,000 for her illicit services. This stark betrayal of Job's duties as an officer of the law underscores a serious breach of trust and highlights the challenges faced by South African authorities in maintaining integrity within their ranks.

The plot, however, was foiled thanks to a whistle-blower who became aware of Job's activities and courageously alerted the Hawks' Serious Corruption Investigation team stationed in Bloemfontein. The Hawks, a unit renowned for their meticulous investigatory procedures and anti-corruption efforts, followed up on the tip-off with alacrity and precision.

Following thorough investigative work, Job was arrested during an attempted transaction on October 8, 2019. The immediate response by the Hawks is illustrative of the robust systems of accountability and justice being enforced to counteract criminal activities perpetrated by public officials.

Job faced multiple court appearances which led to her recent conviction on July 30, 2024, at the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court. With the conviction now formalized, the former constable’s fall from grace is evidence of the staunch stance of the South African judiciary against those who seek to undermine legal norms and public safety.

The case underscores the national concern over illegal firearm circulation and corruption within the security sector. There is an unyielding commitment from authorities to preserve the integrity of the police force and safeguard communities from the perils of organized crime.

Free State authorities have confirmed that Noxolo Perseverance Job's sentencing is scheduled for December 9, 2024. The case against Job remains a public interest matter, sending a strong message that corruption and dereliction of duty will be met with the full force of the law.