Two Limpopo traffic cops have found themselves on the wrong side of the law for allegedly trying to a solicit a bribe from officials from the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (known as the Hawks).
The cops, aged 33 and 36, have been arrested and charged with corruption.
Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa said its members were driving a State car on Van Riebeeck Street in Groblersdal on Thursday when they were pulled off the road by the traffic officials.
“The officials informed the driver (a Hawks official) that he had contravened the National Road Traffic Act by using a cellphone while driving a motor vehicle.
“They asked him to produce a driver's license.”
Mmuroa said that after producing his license, the traffic cop asked him to get out of his vehicle and get into their car.
“The traffic officer allegedly told the Hawks official to buy a lunch for them so that they can not issue him with a ticket.
“The driver apologised, but the second traffic official allegedly insisted that he must buy lunch for them.
“They allegedly demanded R100 from him. He went to his colleagues to ask for cash and handed it to those traffic officials.”
Mmuroa said both traffic cops were immediately arrested by the Hawks members.
They are expected to appear at the Groblersdal Magistrate’s Court soon.
Head of the Hawks in Limpopo, Major General Gopz Govender heaped praise the team.
"These members are applauded for their unwavering commitment to the Directorate for acting with the true spirit without fear, favour or prejudice.“
IOL News