Four people have been arrested during an investigation into an alleged cash-for-driver’s-licence scheme at the Marble Hall Driving Licence Testing Centre in Limpopo.
The arrests followed a joint operation by the Special Investigating Unit and the South African Police Service. Investigators allege that applicants paid R2,000 to obtain learner’s licences without completing the required test.
According to the SIU and police account, one suspect from KwaZulu-Natal allegedly coordinated with a Limpopo accomplice and examiners at the testing centre.
The group is alleged to have processed batches of between 20 and 30 learner’s licences at a time by bypassing lawful licensing procedures and manipulating the eNatis system.
Police said the first suspect was found in possession of several learner’s licences. Three cashiers were later arrested at the testing centre after officers reported finding cash on two of them.
The four suspects face charges including fraud, corruption and contravention of the Cybercrimes Act. The allegations have not been tested in court and none of the accused has been convicted.
The SIU said its investigation was authorised under a proclamation covering corruption in the transport department’s licensing division, including the unlawful issuing of learner’s licences and manipulation of the National Traffic Information System.
eNatis is the national electronic system used to record vehicle and driver-licensing transactions. The investigation centres on alleged interference with that system and the processing of licences without the legally required assessment.
The operation was continuing, with investigators saying further arrests and disciplinary action could follow where evidence establishes involvement. No court date was included in the reports reviewed by EBNewsDaily.
