Durban – More than 80 traffic officials in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) have been arrested in connection with the irregular issuing of learner and driver’s licences.
The officials are accused of taking bribes to unlawfully issue learner and driver’s licences to applicants who did not qualify.
“We are encouraged by the messages of support and tip-offs from communities following the arrest of 33 people in connection with the fraud and corruption associated with the issuing of driver’s licenses,” said Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma in a statement on Friday, (20 September 2024).
“As we indicated, the number has increased to more than 87.”
MEC Duma added: “We attribute this success to the sterling work of our highly motivated and efficient team from the Traffic and Transport Inspection Unit, the Hawks, and the National Prosecuting Authority.
“The support from the community for our road safety campaign is motivating us to do more to flush out elements that are producing fake and irresponsible drivers who are behind the carnage on our roads.
“For the criminal syndicate to thrive, they rely on a few rogue elements within the department and municipalities.”
All examiners employed by either the municipality or the KZN Department of Transport are registered by the province in terms of the National Road Traffic Act, 1996.
“As an Executive Authority empowered by the Act, I wish to announce that any examiner found to be involved in the facilitation of this fraud and corruption will be deregistered and blacklisted. Driver’s licenses will be revoked,” said MEC Duma.
“We are determined to show a firmer hand on criminal elements that have infiltrated our driver license centres in the province.”
The MEC said most workers were efficient and committed to serving the people of KZN without falling prey to bribery, fraud, and corruption.
“Our position is that fraud and corruption is a cancer that has the potential to irreparably harm the whole international standing of our province and its reputation amongst its citizens,” said MEC Duma.
“It will make people lose faith in the future of our democratic country.
“Fighting corruption is about the restoration of the fiber of our society.
“We are inspiring hope for a better future.”
All the arrested officials including the 33 listed below will be brought before the courts.
