Three vehicle examiners and a cashier were arrested in Midway, Soweto, yesterday (Thursday) for allegedly issuing fraudulent roadworthy certificates to untested vehicles.
A joint team of law enforcement officers made up of the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s (RTMC) National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit, the South African Police Service organised crime unit and the Gauteng traffic compliance unit raided the premises of Innovative Roadworthy Centre.
“Hundreds of roadworthy test sheets bearing a passed stamp and bearing the signature of the cashier were found on the premises,” said RTMC spokesperson, Simon Zwane. “Particulars of applicants and results of tests done on vehicles have not been filled on the forms.”
The four officials will face charges under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act which carries a sentence between three and 18 years and they are expected to appear in court on October 30.
Vehicles that were tested at the centre will be recalled and retested and those found to be unroadworthy will be impounded and the owners may be arrested.
“Arrests related to road traffic corruption are expected to increase in the coming weeks as law enforcement officers intensify their pre-festive season operation to address all known factors that lead to road accident fatalities,” added Zwane.
