Efforts by National Police Commissioner General Riah Phiyega to intensify investigations into crimes committed by members of the police and people impersonating police officials is rapidly gaining momentum.
A national investigation team set up General Phiyega has uncovered two syndicates that are linked to one another operating in the Gauteng areas of Florida, the Johannesburg CBD, Langlaagte, Boksburg and Randburg.
The group, according to police spokesperson Lieutenant General Solomon Makgale, target foreign-owned businesses, such as Chinese, Somalis and Pakistanis for any valuables, particularly cash.
Makgale said the targeted people kept large sums of cash as they did not use bank accounts.
“We once again call on all business people to utilise banks in order to ensure that their money is secure. The other key matter is that victims should report the offences once they have fallen victim to crime.”
Makgale appealed to anyone with knowledge of such incidents to contact 08600 10111 anonymously.
Since October last year the National Investigation Unit (NiNU) has arrested 18 people in connection with charges relating to the impersonation of police officers and Sars officials, among other charges.
The suspects arrested comprised eleven Sars officials, four SAPS members, two members of the Gauteng Traffic Police and one civilian.
Last Friday, the NiNU, led by Lieutenant General Vinesh Moonoo, arrested five more people in Boksburg North.
Gauteng Traffic Police officials Sipho Mokate, 38, and Neo Rampete, 40, Sars officials Ayanda Monareng, 27, Sydney Radebe, 41, and Thulani Sihlangu, 26, appeared in the Johannesburg Central court on Friday on charges of corruption, fraud, racketeering, robbery and house breaking.
They have been remanded in custody and they are expected to reappear in court today for a formal bail application. –SAnews.gov.za
Corrupt police officials under fire
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