Police minister Senzo Mchunu condemns corruption and praises law enforcement for key arrests and a kidnapping rescue.
Image: Tumi Pakkies/Independent Newspapers
Police have arrested 18 suspects, including municipal officials and a driving school owner, in connection with corruption and fraud at the Lephalale Local Municipality in Limpopo.
The arrests, which followed a multi-agency investigation since 2021, mark a significant step in dismantling corrupt networks within government structures.
The South African Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu has strongly condemned criminal activities within government institutions following the arrest of multiple officials in Lephalale.
The operation, carried out on Friday, February 7, was a collaborative effort involving Polokwane and Musina Crime Scene Investigators and the Road Traffic Management Corporation.
“We unequivocally condemn any abuse of power and criminal conduct by government officials, particularly those entrusted with critical responsibilities in our institutions,” Mchunu stated.
Authorities initially arrested five suspects, including four municipal officials and a driving school owner.
However, further investigations over the weekend led to the arrest of five more suspects, with additional detentions bringing the total number of those in custody to 18. Officials expect more arrests as investigations continue.
“Let this be a clear message, those who engage in corruption and criminality within our government structures will be held accountable. The culture of impunity must end,” Mchunu said.
"In a separate incident, an Indian male who was kidnapped last year in September in KwaDukuza (in KwaZulu-Natal) was released on Monday, February 10," said ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (also known as the Hawks) is now investigating to trace the kidnappers.
Commending the efforts of law enforcement officers, Mchunu stated: “We commend our law enforcement officers for their swift action in securing the release of a kidnapped victim in KwaDukuza.
"This success is a testament to the dedication and skill of our police officers. We urge them to continue their thorough investigation to ensure that all those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice without delay.”
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