NATIONAL NEWS - Eleven vehicle testing station officials and vehicle owners have been arrested for alleged fraud in Limpopo, KZN and Gauteng.

The suspects, between the ages of 27 and 57, were arrested by the Polokwane-based Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation (SCCI) in collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s (RTMC) National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit.

“It is alleged that in May 2019, the cashiers and vehicle examiners attached to Mookgopong Private Testing Station in Limpopo, did unlawfully, falsely and with common purpose defraud the Department of Transport by authorising and issuing six roadworthy certificates without following due process.

“The suspects also used identity documents of another person as an applicant without their knowledge,” the RTMC said yesterday.

The RTMC noticed the fraudulent activities, opened a fraud case and handed it to the Hawks for further investigation.

The SCCI gathered all the evidence. Upon finalisation of the investigation, the docket was handed to the Public Prosecutor for a decision.

“The prosecutor issued the summons against the suspects. An operation named ‘Sisfikile’, consisting of the Hawks and members of the RTMC was conducted.

“The suspects were traced and arrested at various places in Limpopo, KZN and Gauteng between 4 and 9 November. The suspects are vehicle owners who received roadworthy certificates and the officials who authorised and issued such certificates,” RTMC said.

All suspects are due to appear in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, sitting in Polokwane, on 12 December, to face fraud charges.

More arrests are imminent.

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