Hawks Clamp Down on Roadworthy Certificate Fraud in Gauteng and Limpopo

In a decisive move to curb corruption within motor vehicle testing facilities, the Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit, together with the National Traffic Anti-corruption Unit, carried out operation "SIYA VALA" in Gauteng Province. This operation, which occurred between December 5 and 6, 2024, led to the arrest of two additional suspects aged between 40 and 45, suspected of fraud and forgery.

The arrests are part of a broader investigation concerning illicit activities at the Mookgopong Private Testing Station in Limpopo. Allegations surfaced in May 2019 when it was discovered that several cashiers and vehicle examiners, acted unlawfully by issuing six roadworthy certificates without adhering to the standard procedures. Furthermore, these individuals are accused of using another person's identity without their consent to complete the transactions.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) was the first to notice these fraudulent activities and promptly opened a case docket, which was then handed over to the Polokwane-based Hawks for a more thorough investigation. After compiling sufficient evidence, the case was forwarded to the Public Prosecutor, who subsequently issued the summons leading to the arrests under operation "SIYA VALA."

This is not an isolated case; another operation named "SESIFIKILE" also saw eleven suspects apprehended earlier in November 2024. These individuals, arrested across Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng Provinces, include both the vehicle owners who unlawfully obtained roadworthy certificates and the officials who issued them.

All suspects from these operations are set to appear in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Polokwane on December 12, 2024, facing charges of fraud. This decisive action underlines the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to dismantle networks involved in such corrupt practices.

The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Limpopo, Major General (Advocate) Gopz Govender, has expressed satisfaction with the progress of these operations, signaling a strong message against corruption, particularly in sectors as critical as road safety. The initiative not only aims to bring the wrongdoers to justice but also to restore integrity and public trust in South Africa's transport systems.