A police official and petrol attendant aged (29) and (36) were arrested by the Bizana based Serious Corruption Investigation (SCI) team of the Hawks on 9 November 2023 for allegations of fraud. The police officer is currently employed by South African Police Service (SAPS) and his co-accused is employed in one of the local fuel stations.
On 13 June 2023, it is alleged that the officer was driving a state owned motor vehicle belonging to SAPS which was a white Toyota Hilux Double Cab. The reports revealed that the officer went to one of the local garage to fill up the fuel. Later, it was discovered that the policeman allegedly colluded with the petrol attendant to fraudulently utilise SAPS petrol card pretending as if they were filling - up the state vehicle. The duo allegedly successful orchestrated the fraudulent transaction to an amount of R1269-90. Further, allegations revealed the suspects filled up the SAPS vehicle with the cut down amount of R869-90. Further allegations are that the suspects allegedly shared the difference of an amount of R400 00 amongst themselves. During the regular motor vehicle inspection the discrepancies were picked up. Then the matter was reported to the Hawks’ SCI team for further investigation.
The investigation confirmed that indeed the transaction went through as a result the state suffered a loss of cash to an amount of R400. Further investigations concur that both accused allegedly benefited from the said amount equally. Both accused were ultimately arrested by the Bizana based SCI team of the Hawks on 9 November 2023. The suspects will make their first court appearance before the Mthatha Regional court on 10 November 2023.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya articulated his appreciation to the investigating team for the most remarkable efforts in ensuring that they root out fraud and corruption criminal activities within the service thus reflecting that the Hawks operate without fear favour or prejudice.