Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele has welcomed the arrest of three men and two women yesterday, 11 November 2009, believed to be part of a syndicate which sold fake learners and driving licences in and around Bloemfontein.
"We want to commend the South African Police Service (SAPS) and all other role-players on these arrests which form part of a forensic investigation that was initiated by the Department of Transport into allegations of fraud and corruption relating to learner and driving licences around the country. More arrests in other provinces can be expected in the next few days. We want to appeal to members of the public who may have any information that may assist in these investigations to please contact their local police. You can run but can't hide.
"In line with President Zuma's State of the Nation Address on 3 June 2009, we have adopted a zero tolerance stance when it comes to corruption in the Department of Transport. We are committed to the reform and tightening of the regulatory regime and instruments dealing with anti-corruption, particularly with regards to learner and driving licences. One of our key focus areas relate to advancing the coordination, implementation and integration of anti-fraud and anti-corruption transport measures across the three spheres of government.
"In order to address fraud and corruption in the driving licence system, we are moving towards computerised testing systems and have rolled out mobile and fixed stations in parts of the country. KwaZulu-Natal already has 21 fixed stations and two mobile stations; Gauteng has one fixed station and two mobile stations; Mpumalanga has three fixed stations and one mobile station.
"Working with Home Affairs, we will also ensure, as of next year, that our new driving licence cards have enhanced security and unquestionable integrity to be accepted in our country and internationally. The contract of the current service provider for the drivers' smart cards expired on 30 April 2009. It was extended to 31 December 2009 to allow for a proper tender process. We will appoint a new service provider soon," said the Minister.
The group arrested yesterday (11 November) were apprehended during raids that started on Tuesday and lasted until Wednesday afternoon. The operation commenced three weeks ago after information was received about people developing and selling learners' and driving licences. Among other things, Police seized a computer and a colour printer believed to have been used to develop the fake licences.
Enquiries:
Logan Maistry
Cell: 083 6444 050
Issued by: Department of Transport
12 November 2009
