The Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court saw a 28-year-old intern from the Department of Transport in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, on Thursday, April 3, after police arrested him for allegedly soliciting bribes in exchange for fake traffic officer job offers.
Key Points:
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Authorities arrested a transport department intern for allegedly soliciting bribes in exchange for fake traffic officer job offers.
- The suspect, Lutendo Makgoka, faces corruption charges and will return to court for a bail application.
- Authorities continue to investigate the case, with additional charges expected.
The suspect, Lutendo Makgoka, is facing corruption charges and will return to court on April 17, 2025, for a formal bail application.
Arrest and Sting Operation
The Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit in Limpopo arrested Makgoka on April 2, 2025, after conducting a sting operation. The operation followed a complaint filed the previous day, accusing Makgoka of offering job seekers positions as Traffic Officers for a fee.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, “The suspect allegedly demanded R6,500 per person in exchange for securing a job.” Consequently, the investigation into the matter intensified.
Ongoing Investigation
Upon receiving the complaint, the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit quickly launched an investigation. Officers organized the sting operation in the Thohoyandou area, where they expected the suspect to meet with victims.
“During the operation, the suspect arrived at the designated location, met with the victims, and requested payment. Upon receiving the money, the police moved in and arrested him,” Mashaba confirmed.
At the time of his arrest, authorities recovered R2,000 from Makgoka’s possession.
More Charges Expected
Furthermore, Investigation will be continued by the Police; moreover, charges could be added as the case develops.
“The Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit, in collaboration with the DPCI Serious Corruption Investigation Unit in Musina, is pursuing the investigation. Mashaba said the investigation could lead to additional charges as more details emerge.
The case highlights the ongoing eff no noorts by authorities to address corruption within public service sectors.
