13 metro cops busted over corruption
Arrests follow suspicions the officers were involved in extorting money from motorists who had allegedly broken road regulations.
Thirteen Tshwane metro police officers were arrested on allegations of corruption and malfeasance in an operation led by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC).
The suspects, aged between 32 and 57, will appear in the Pretoria, Hammanskraal and Temba magistrate’s courts on Tuesday, according to RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane.
Two officers were arrested on Saturday, while 11 others were arrested a day earlier, following suspicions that they were involved in extorting money from motorists who had allegedly broken road regulations.
“The arrests follow an 18-month investigation dubbed Operation Bunny which was initiated by the RTMC’s national traffic anti-corruption unit,” said Zwane.
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Zwane said the investigation came after members of the public expressed dissatisfaction with the allegedly unprofessional conduct shown by some Tshwane metro police officers.
The corporation also said it was calling for swift and decisive disciplinary action to be taken against the officers.
“The RTMC would like the Tshwane municipality to also initiate its own disciplinary [actions] without delay,” Zwane said.
He said that a strong message must be sent out that corruption would not be tolerated within the law enforcement fraternity.
“Investigators who were involved in Operation Bunny are ready, able and willing to assist the municipality in their disciplinary process that will assist it to restore ethical and professional conduct in the ranks of their law enforcement officers.”
Zwane also urged motorists to report traffic officer-related corruption at 0861-400-800 or on their WhatsApp line at 083-293-7989.
Alternatively, complaints could be sent the RTMC via email at NTACU@rtmc.co.za.
Tshwane metro police spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba confirmed the arrests.
“Internally, we’re awaiting the court outcome from their court appearances,” he said.
He said a “way forward” was expected to be decided upon by the department from there.
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