Fake Limpopo correctional services officer (60) nabbed in R15k job scam

LIMPOPO – The police’s provincial anti-corruption unit has arrested a 60-year-old man, Azwindini Gabriel Mugwari, on charges of extortion and impersonating a government official.

The arrest took place last Monday in Sibasa, in the Thohoyandou policing area.

According to Limpopo police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba, the incident dates back to September 11, 2024 when a female complainant was approached by a man who introduced himself as a Correctional Services warder based in Thohoyandou.

The suspect allegedly offered to help her son secure employment within the Department of Correctional Services in exchange for R15 000.

The following day, the suspect requested an upfront payment of R3 500, which was handed over during a meeting in Sibasa. He also took the young man’s documents, promising that training would begin soon.

On September 16, 2024, the complainant and her son met the suspect again at the Thohoyandou SAPS premises, where they were asked to sign a document and pay an additional R7 000.

Shortly after the second payment, the complainant’s son was informed by a concerned individual that the man they had been dealing with was not a legitimate government employee.

Attempts to locate him were initially unsuccessful, but he was later spotted at the Thohoyandou taxi rank.

He returned R5 000 and claimed to have spent R2 000, pledging to repay the balance.

After the matter was formally reported on April 29 this year, police moved swiftly to arrest Mugwari. He was found in possession of a Correctional Services uniform at the time of his arrest. He appeared in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court and was due to return for a formal bail application on May 2.

At the time of going to press, no court outcome had been received.

Acting provincial police commissioner Maj Gen Samuel Manala praised the anti-corruption unit for their prompt action and warned the public against schemes that promise employment in exchange for money.

“Do not be deceived. Report any individuals who solicit money in return for jobs. These actions are illegal and exploit the vulnerable,” he said.