The six suspects linked to an alleged driver’s licence scam in Bloemfontein are expected to reappear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on 28 September. They face charges of fraud and corruption after their arrest by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit based in Bloemfontein.
The elite crime-fighting unit arrested the alleged scammers following an ongoing investigation since March this year after reports from two victims. The culprits are Thabang Johannes Mokotjwa (46), Keneilwe Elisa Molehe (53), Kebautlwile Jacqueline Kgwadi (47), Matsobane Michael Mokhonwana (48), Lehlohonolo Athy Molosi (46) and Ishmael Selogiloe Kganare (42). They are out bail of R500 each, with conditions having appeared on 5 September.
Capt. Christopher Singo, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said the suspects would stand trial together. They apparently conspired to scam two victims out of R8 500 each in 2021.
Singo said the victims had planned to obtain driving licences in Bloemfontein, adding that Mokhonwana appeared to be the common denominator. He said other suspects allegedly told the two victims that they knew Mokhonwana, and then convinced them that he would be able to assist them in obtaining a licence for R8 500. He said investigations revealed that the victims met Mokhonwana on separate occasions, who then agreed to help both obtain driver’s licences for R8 500. “The victims then paid the amount,” confirmed Singo, adding that none of the alleged scammers worked at the Free State Lengau Testing and Traffic Centre in Bloemfontein.
“But when they lured the victims, they claimed to know certain traffic officials who could assist in obtaining driver’s licences,” Singo continued. He said the two victims became aware they had been scammed after not receiving any feedback after several follow-ups with the accused.
