Man arrested for soliciting bribe
A MAN was on Friday arrested after he allegedly posed as an official and solicited a R6 000 bribe from a resident in La Rochelle, southern Joburg, mayor Herman Mashaba said yesterday.
The man was expected to appear in court today on charges of fraud and extortion. More arrests related to the case were expected, Mashaba said.
“It is alleged that the complainant’s account was in arrears and she approached the city’s revenue department to make payment arrangements. While she was trying to sort out her account, the suspect approached her and offered to assist by writing off the arrears on the account.
“The suspect told the resident they would write off her debt provided she paid R6 000.”
The resident agreed to pay the money to the suspect and then informed the city’s group forensic and investigation service team which set up a sting operation with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department.
“I have also learnt that these suspects are working with officials from the revenue department. More arrests are imminent. I would like to commend the resident who refused to be part of any corrupt activity and reported the matter to our team, which acted swiftly to deal with the matter.
“Corruption has no place in this administration and we will work tirelessly, and in collaboration with law-enforcement agencies, to ensure that the residents of Joburg receive the quality services they deserve,” Mashaba said.