A CITY of Ekurhuleni official, working at the revenue department, was arrested after soliciting a bribe of R70 000 from a Johannesburg resident on December 4.
The police are looking for his accomplice who is also a City employee.
It is alleged that the suspects approached the resident whose account is in arrears and told him that they would write off his R550 000 debt provided that he pays them R70 000.
His debt was then reduced to R67 000 and he paid them R30 000. But he was not happy and demanded that his balance on the account should be zero and then he will pay them the balance of R40 000.
The City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Service (GFIS) team, which has been monitoring the account, approached the customer about the discrepancies on his account. He then confessed and led the team and police to the suspect.
City of Joburg mayor Clr Herman Mashaba said, “I am deeply disappointed after learning that these corrupt activities are still continuing. I have instructed our anti-fraud and corruption unit to look into this matter. It is clear that consumers continue to collude with our officials in the fraudulent refunds scam. We have zero tolerance for corruption. That is why we will continue to vigorously pursue every allegation of corruption.
“Corruption has no place in this administration and we will work tirelessly, and in collaboration with institutions such as the Hawks, SAPS and all other institutions within the criminal justice system, to ensure that the residents of Johannesburg receive the quality services they deserve.
“I would like to encourage people to report any fraud and corruption activities through our 24-hour tip-off hotline 0800 002 587 or visit the offices of GFIS situated at 48 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein.”
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