Nine traffic officers have been arrested in Gauteng and KZN in a pre-festive season travel crackdown on fraud and corruption.

According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), two officers from the Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department in Gauteng were arrested for soliciting a bribe of R1 500 from a taxi driver.

The driver immediately alerted the RTMC’s National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit (NTACU) and a successful sting operation was conducted resulting in the officers’ arrests. They are expected to appear in court today on corruption charges.

In another case, seven officers were arrested for fraud and corruption in Newcastle. The seven include five traffic officers employed by the provincial Road Traffic Inspectorate and two officers from Newcastle municipality.

They were arrested in a joint operation conducted by NTACU and the Hawks following complaints from members of the public regarding the conduct of traffic officers on the road. An undercover operation was conducted and they were arrested.

The RTMC says these incidents highlight the ongoing battle against corruption in South Africa, particularly within law enforcement agencies.

It is important for citizens to report corruption to ensure corrupt officials are brought to book, it adds.

Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected acts of fraud and corruption via email to ntacu@rtmc.co.za or by WhatsApp to 083 293 7989. – SAnews.gov.za