BFS takes tough stance against bribery
“Bribing an officer is an insult to everything we stand for.”
In the past three months, members of the Benoni Flying Squad (BFS) have made six arrests pertaining to bribery, with officers being offered thousands for the release of arrested suspects.
During last week’s operations, two suspects were arrested on charges of bribery, both following arrests being made on the N12.
According to WO Grant Giblin, BFS spokesperson, anti-corruption and the implication of accepting bribes are preached to members daily.
“Accusations of accepting bribes carry severe consequences to members, with disciplinary steps resulting in immediate dismissal,” he said.
“Following the internal processes, criminal proceedings follow, which means members risk their entire career by accepting bribes.”
On April 6, officers responded to information from a vehicle tracking company of a stolen white Toyota Hilux that was traced to the N12 Bunyan Street off-ramp.
“The vehicle had been reported as stolen in Krugersdorp. The driver of the bakkie was arrested and transported to the Benoni Police Station for processing.”
At the police station, a man, who offered them R2 000 for the release of the driver, approached officers.
“Once he had handed the money over to the officers, he was arrested,” he said.
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On April 7 patrolling members stopped a white Volvo truck, transporting pallets of sugar, at the Putfontein off-ramp.
Upon closer inspection, 12 large bags containing dagga, with a value of R350 000, were found hidden amongst the pallets.
Both occupants of the vehicle were arrested, subsequently one produced R4 000 for their release.
“Once the officer accepted the money, a further charge for bribery was added,” said Giblin.
“Some may argue that by taking possession of money offered as a bribe, officers are entrapping suspects. But one must remember, an innocent person will not attempt this.
“Paying a bribe whether out of free will or after being solicited still implicates the payer in participating in criminal activity.”
He said the unit’s continued success in bringing criminals to book should serve as a stern warning to criminals and their accomplices that bribery will not be tolerated.
“Anyone guilty of such crimes will face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
The public is urged to work with the police in the fight against the scourge of crime by reporting any form of criminal activities on the Crime Stop Line on 08600 10111. Alternatively, anonymous tip-offs can be logged on the MySaps app.
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