Immigration officials remanded in custody for bribery
The three officials were arrested after allegedly demanding a bribe from a foreign immigrant in exchange for his freedom.
LIMPOPO – Three home affairs officials who were arrested by the Serious Corruption Investigation Unit, with the help of the Home Affairs Counter Corruption Unit, appeared in the Motetema Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday on a charge of corruption and were remanded in custody.
The officials, aged between 30 and 42, were arrested during a sting operation in Jane Furse on Tuesday, 27 October.
In a statement, Hawks Spokesperson, Capt Matimba Maluleke said it is alleged the suspects, who include a control immigration officer from Nebo and two immigration officers from Jane Furse, had demanded a bribe from an undocumented immigrant who they had come across during a routine inspection at a foreign owned shop.
“Instead of arresting him, the officials reportedly demanded a R10 000 gratification for his freedom. This amount was reportedly later reduced to R4 000.”
The money was paid to the suspects and thereafter the matter was reported to the Hawks, he added.
“An investigation was conducted and the three officials were arrested.”
The suspects are expected to re-appear on Monday, 2 November for formal bail application.
