The suspect was arrested on Tuesday night (28 July) during a joint intelligence-led operation. The operation involved the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s National Anti-Corruption Unit, the police’s crime intelligence tactical and special operations, the Hawks, and cybercrime units from both crime intelligence and the Hawks. 

The operation followed information that the suspect was allegedly accessing NaTIS from his private residence. He was reportedly fraudulently assisting vehicle owners in renewing their licences, RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said.

Papers seized during operation. Photo supplied

Officers searched the property during the operation. They allegedly found a computer displaying the Natis login screen, with a user number and password already entered. 

Natis printouts and reports from several provinces were also discovered, along with notebooks, vehicle registration numbers, login credentials, and identity numbers.

Investigators believe the suspect, reportedly an IT specialist, may be connected to a wider network operating across several provinces. He allegedly implicated former transport officials, current Natis users in different provinces, and users linked to the national Department of Transport.

Money and some of the papers and materials seized during the operation. Photo supplied

The suspect allegedly told investigators that user numbers were bought from officials and transferred on memory sticks. He claimed the group operated in southern Gauteng and the Free State, but had gained access to Natis credentials from official contacts countrywide.

The alleged syndicate reportedly targets driving licence testing centres where biometric systems have not yet been installed.

It is also believed to have credentials for private vehicle testing stations, allowing members to capture or declare vehicles roadworthy on the system.

Authorities seized documents in a black cooler bag, a laptop, and desktop computers believed to have been used in the alleged fraud. 

The arrest represents a major breakthrough in a three-year investigation into the suspected organised syndicate, Zwane said. More arrests are believed to be imminent as investigators continue probing the network.

RTMC chief executive Advocate Makhosini Msibi welcomed the arrest and urged the investigative team to intensify its efforts to ensure that all alleged syndicate members face prosecution.

Fraudulently created licences discovered by law enforcement agencies. Photo supplied

The suspect is expected to appear in the Parys Magistrate’s Court on Thursday (30/7). 

Investigations are continuing into what authorities believe is a sophisticated, multi-province corruption and cybercrime network operating within South Africa’s vehicle licensing system.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh

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