Man attempts to bribe community leader to influence family to drop rape charge

A shocking case emerged in court this week as two Bangladeshi nationals, Lufer Rahman and Ulla Rafiq, faced charges of attempting to bribe a community leader to influence a local family in Polokwane to withdraw a rape case against their fellow brother.

Rahman, aged 42, was found guilty of corruption and sentenced to seven years in prison with an option to pay a fine of R70 000, while the case against Rafiq was withdrawn by the state.

ALSO READ: Alleged bribery in SAPS prevents victims from getting jobs elsewhere

According to police reports, the disturbing incident revolves around the rape of a minor that occurred in Namakgale back in 2022, allegedly committed by another Bangladeshi male suspect.

The report states that in an attempt to evade justice, Rahman and Rafiq approached a man known as Edmon Mbetse, a well-respected community member, and urged him to convince the victim’s family to withdraw the charges. As an incentive, they promised a gratification of R5 000 to Mbetse and offered R15 000 to the victim’s family.

Responsible citizen

South African Police Services spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said that Mbetse thereby acted as a responsible citizen and promptly reported the bribery attempt to the police.

“The Anti-Corruption Unit swiftly gathered intelligence, assembled a dedicated team, and operationalised the information. Their efforts culminated in the arrest of Rafiq and Rahman for corruption on 3 June 2022, in Phalaborwa,” said Malesela.

The report went on to confirm that after their arrest, both defendants were granted bail of R2 000 each on 13 June 2022.

ALSO READ: SA’s dumbest criminal? – Man arrested for prosecutor bribe after getting bail for bribing cop

Meanwhile, Rahman appeared before the Giyani Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday and pleaded guilty to the corruption charges. As a result, he was declared unfit to possess a firearm. On the other hand, Ledwaba confirmed that the state decided to withdraw the case against Rafiq.

Ledwaba said the conviction of Rahman sends a strong message that attempts to subvert the justice system through bribery will not go unpunished. This case highlights the country’s need to protect survivors of sexual assault and ensure that their voices are heard, free from undue influence or corruption.