A 28-year-old intern, Lutendo Makgoka, employed at the Department of Transport in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, appeared before the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on charges of corruption. His court appearance follows his arrest on April 3, after an investigation by the provincial anti-corruption unit in Limpopo.

Makgoka allegedly solicited money from victims under false pretenses, promising them employment as traffic officers in exchange for payment. He reportedly demanded R6,500 per person. The case began after a complaint was lodged on April 1, which led to a sting operation in Thohoyandou. Makgoka was apprehended after receiving money from the victims, and R2,000 was recovered from him during the arrest.

Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, police spokesperson, stated that the case has been postponed to April 17, 2025, for a formal bail application. The investigation is ongoing, with the provincial anti-corruption unit and the Hawks serious corruption investigation unit in Musina collaborating on the case. Additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the provincial commissioner of Limpopo police, praised the multi-disciplinary teams for their swift response in apprehending Makgoka.