A Mhala Regional Court interpreter has been sentenced to five years’ direct imprisonment for demanding a bribe to facilitate legal representation, reports Lowvelder.

Innocent Timothy Sibuyi, 49, was convicted in the Nelspruit Commercial Crimes Court on Friday (July 17), following a corrupt scheme involving a rape suspect’s family.

Soliciting a ‘cold drink’

The court heard that in November 2022, Sibuyi summoned the brother of a rape suspect to his office. He claimed he could “’facilitate’ private legal counsel for the accused, who did not qualify for Legal Aid.

When the family offered R1 000, Sibuyi rejected the amount as insufficient. He insisted on R2 500, cynically stating the funds were for his ‘cold drink’.  The family transferred the requested amount into Sibuyi’s bank account but promptly reported the extortion to the Mhala police.

Investigation and failed cover-up

The investigation was subsequently transferred to the Hawks in Mbombela. Upon learning he was under investigation, Sibuyi attempted to cover his tracks by refunding R2 000 to the complainant’s mother, promising to pay the remainder later.

His attempts to evade justice proved futile; he was arrested and initially released on R5 000 bail. Following several postponements, the matter concluded with Friday’s sentencing.

Zero tolerance for corruption

The Hawks have welcomed the ruling, asserting that it sends a clear message that corruption within the criminal justice system will not be tolerated.

“We remain committed to ensuring that all individuals who abuse positions of trust for personal gain are brought to justice,” said Major General Nico Gerber, the Mpumalanga Head of the Hawks.

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