11 Licensing Officials Nabbed in ‘Operation Catfish’ Crackdown on Fraud and Corruption

Eleven licensing officials found themselves in handcuffs, facing charges of fraud and corruption linked to the alleged unlawful issuance of driving licenses and roadworthiness certificates, part of an investigation code-named ‘Operation Catfish.’

The arrests unfolded in three provinces:

• Ladybrand in the Free State, 
• Elukwatini in Mpumalanga, and 
• Rayton in Gauteng. 

IOL reports that RTMC* spokesperson Simon Zwane said the arrests resulted from a collaboration with the Hawks.

“The suspects are implicated in fraud relating to the unlawful issuing of driving licenses and roadworthiness certificates,” Zwane stated. “The arrests follow three years of investigation code-named ‘Operation Catfish,’ which identifies examiners fraudulently issuing driver’s licenses and roadworthy certificates at various testing stations.”

Also read: Bosasa Fraud and Corruption Case Returns to Court, Involving R1.8 Billion

Zwane clarified that the National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit of the RTMC initiated the investigation, collaborating with the Hawks. “The investigation has established a link in corruption in all three provinces. The majority of the arrested officials are based at Lengau Testing Centre in Bloemfontein,” he reported.

All suspects will appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday morning. “This is part of ongoing efforts to remove all risk factors that contribute to a high number of crashes, injuries, and fatalities on the roads,” emphasized Zwane.

The RTMC encouraged the public to report suspected fraud, corruption, and malfeasance to [email protected] or via WhatsApp at 083-293-7989.

*Road Traffic Management Corporation

Also read:

Hawks Investigate Deputy DPE Minister Bapela for Theft Under False Pretences

Picture: X / newsnotenetwork

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