The Metro police arrested two officials, who attempted to solicit a bribe of R2 000 from a resident in Auckland Park, on Friday, 15 December.
Executive Mayor Herman Mashaba said the two officials work for an independent contractor who provides electricity disconnection services to City Power.
The pair threatened to disconnect the resident’s power if they were not paid R2 000, citing that the resident’s account was in arrears.
The resident decided to inform the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services (GFIS), also known as the anti-corruption unit, which then set up a sting operation.
“One of the officials who escorted the resident to the ATM refused to take the money at the centre because of CCTV cameras and told the resident to go back home and they will come and collect it there. The resident had R500 with him, which was collected by the two officials from the contractor,” the mayor said.
The Metro police and GFIS then pounced on the two officials and arrested them.
“I am disturbed that this is becoming a trend in Johannesburg. We will not hesitate [to terminate] the services of contractors who are found to be involved in illegal activities,” Mashaba said.
Details: Report any fraud and corruption activities using the 24-hour tip-off hotline 0800 002 587 or visit the GFIS offices at 48 Ameshoff Street in Braamfontein.
