Mpumalanga, South Africa - The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has issued a stern warning to law enforcement officers against unethical conduct, particularly bribery, as the festive season approaches. This announcement comes in the wake of a recent court ruling against a traffic officer in Mpumalanga for corruption.
According to South African Government News Agency, the officer in question was sentenced by the Ermelo Regional Court after being caught accepting a R200 bribe from undercover anti-corruption agents. The incident occurred during Project Arrive Alive on 22 January 2020, with the officer's arrest following on 3 March 2021. He pleaded guilty to all charges and received a sentence of a R4,000 fine or 12 months imprisonment. Additionally, he was given a five-year suspended sentence on the condition that he is not convicted of a similar crime within that period.
“The RTMC is taking a firm stance against bribery and corruption within the traffic law enforcement fraternity,” stated the corporation. They emphasized that such illegal activities not only tarnish the image of the force but can also lead to serious consequences, including the loss of lives.
To combat corruption, the RTMC is advocating for stricter sentences for officers who solicit bribes from motorists. It also encourages citizens to report any suspected fraudulent or corrupt activities to their dedicated email address or WhatsApp number.
The implicated officer faced a disciplinary hearing where he was found guilty and subsequently lost his job. His attempt to overturn the disciplinary committee's decision through arbitration was unsuccessful.