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In a significant crackdown on corruption within government agencies, Violet Veleleni Mabena, a 57-year-old official with the Department of Home Affairs in Kwa-Mhlanga, Mpumalanga, faces serious charges under the Prevention of Corrupt Activities Act. Her arrest by the Hawks on 19 November 2024 underscores a firm stance against corruption.
The roots of the case trace back to 10 October 2021, when Mabena was alleged to have accepted R20,000 in exchange for assisting an individual with obtaining an identity document through irregular means. The incident involved manipulating the identification process, including soliciting a birth certificate from a third party to falsify application documents for an ID.
Mabena's activities came to light after an informant alerted the Hawks, leading to a thorough investigation by their Nelspruit-based Serious Corruption Investigation team. The arrest was strategically executed at Mabena’s workplace to signify the seriousness of the offense and the government’s commitment to combating corruption.
Following her arrest, Mabena appeared in the Kwa-Mhlanga Magistrate Court, where she was granted bail at R3,000 and the case was later remanded to the Regional Court for further proceedings scheduled for 6 December 2024.
Major General Gerber, the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commended his team for their swift actions leading to Mabena’s arrest. He emphasized the vulnerability of the Home Affairs Department to corrupt practices and assured that the Hawks are dedicated to pursuing justice "without fear and favour."
This arrest is part of broader efforts to cleanse governmental bodies of corruption, ensuring that officials who leverage their positions for personal gain face the full extent of the law. It highlights the ongoing challenges and efforts within South African institutions to uphold integrity and public trust.