This was after the arrested suspects appeared in the Petrusburg Magistrates Court on Monday (28/10), facing charges related to violations of the POPA Act, fraud, and corruption. 

The investigation, code-named COMMANDO, began in May 2023 and aimed to tackle the threat of fraud and corruption within the Traffic Department offices regarding learners and drivers. The operation was a collaborative effort involving the Free State Provincial Organised Crime Investigations, Trompsburg Crime Intelligence, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the Tactical Response Team (TRT), the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU), and Cyber Crime units, along with CI Physical and Electronic Surveillance Units.

The team focused on dismantling the identified syndicate, and during the takedown operation, two civilians and five Traffic Department officials were arrested.

One of the arrested suspects. Photo: X

The operational team confiscated several items during the operation, including one vehicle, unaccounted cash, multiple Traffic Department documents, files, and cell phones for investigation purposes.

OFM News previously reported on this matter, citing Lt. Gen. Baile Motswenyane, who emphasized the Free State police’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the licensing system. He stated that they will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who undermine it are brought to justice.

The arrested suspects, Gaobusi Michael Motingwe, Abraham Moeketsi Maleke, Itumeleng Macdonald Seleke (38), Thabo Michael Pitso (54), Oarabile Babeile (48), Sylvia Kelebogile Kaselela (51), Grenvirre Ivon Cedras (48), Judith Matlhola (54) and two other males aged 51 and 61, were all charged and appeared before the court, with the state not opposing bail. Seven of the suspects were released on R3,000 bail, while one was granted bail of R1,500. 

OFM News/Rethabile Monyane mvh