Hammanskraal License Examiner Arrested for Attempted Bribery of Anti-Corruption Officials

In a striking incident at the Temba driving license testing center in Hammanskraal, a 59-year-old license examiner was taken into custody for attempting to corrupt anti-corruption investigators. This arrest underscores the persistent challenges and ongoing efforts to eradicate corruption within South Africa's traffic management systems.

The individual, whose identity has not been disclosed pending legal proceedings, was already under scrutiny by the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s (RTMC) national traffic anti-corruption unit in collaboration with the Hawks. The investigation focused on allegations of corrupt activities, specifically relating to the fraudulent issuing of driving licenses at the Temba center.

According to the RTMC, the suspect's approach to undermining the investigation was to offer a substantial bribe. “It is alleged that the official offered R50,000 to investigators, intended to dissuade them and sweep the allegations of corruption under the carpet,” an RTMC spokesperson stated. Reacting to this development, an entrapment operation was organized by the authorities. The official was instructed to deliver the bribe at a nearby shopping mall.

Details from the RTMC reveal a cinematic scene: the license examiner arrived at the designated spot, carrying a white bag filled with cash, divided into two stacks, summing up to the promised R50,000. Unbeknownst to him, this act was the final piece needed to secure his arrest. “He allegedly placed the bag inside the vehicle where the investigators were waiting, openly declaring the contained amount,” the spokesperson continued.

The immediate arrest followed, led by the awaiting anti-corruption team, resulting in his detention at the local Temba police station. Legal proceedings are swiftly following suit, with the accused expected to appear in court for a bail application soon.

This incident not only highlights the vigilance of South Africa's anti-corruption units but also casts a spotlight on the systemic issues plaguing licensing centers across the country. The RTMC and associated agencies continue their assertive stance against corruption, aiming to instill integrity and transparency in public service sectors vital to national safety and governance.