Two suspects were arrested last night, 12 December, after soliciting a R3 500 bribe from a resident in Roodepoort.
The suspects are working for an independent contractor who provides electricity disconnection services to City Power.
It is alleged that the suspects approached the resident and promised to clear his electricity debt in exchange for R3 500.
The resident agreed to pay the required amount and then informed the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services (GFIS) team. The Metro Police and GFIS set up a sting operation, which led to the arrest of both suspects.
The pair will appear in the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court on 14 December.
“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 it,” said Mayor Herman Mashaba.
“In the context of the City’s billing challenges, acts of corruption only serve to worsen the difficult circumstances which our residents have been forced to live under for years. Under the previous administration, this sort of conduct would have been rewarded with a slap on the wrist, no more.
“Criminals must know that they might try to run, but in Johannesburg there is no place for them to hide. Operation Buya Mthetho remains determined to ensuring that the rule of law returns to our communities,” he warned.
“Corruption has no place in this administration and we will work tirelessly to ensure that it is eradicated and that residents of Johannesburg receive the quality services they deserve. I would like to encourage people to report any fraud and corruption activities through our 24-hour tip-off hotline on 0800 002 587 or to visit the GFIS offices situated at 48 Ameshoff Street in Braamfontein,” concluded Mashaba.
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