LICENSE FOR SALE? NOT ANYMORE!
Seven more arrested in Limpopo DRIVING LICENSE FRAUD CRACKDOWN
Thabazimbi – The net is tightening around corrupt officials as the Hawks and the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) continue their crackdown on fraudulent driving license activities in Limpopo. In a takedown operation on Monday 10 February 2025, seven more suspects — aged between 37 and 62 — were arrested at the Driving License Testing Centre in Thabazimbi.
This latest development follows an intensive investigation launched in 2021 to expose officials allegedly issuing learner’s and driver’s licenses without following proper procedures — allegedly in exchange for bribes. The latest arrests bring the total number of suspects apprehended since 7 February 2025 to 18.
In Lephalale alone, the number of those arrested for similar offenses now stands at 11. Over the weekend, six additional suspects were detained, all making their first court appearances on 10 February.
The Hawks also seized electronic devices believed to contain evidence crucial to the investigation.
Court update
According to warrant officer Lethunya Mmuroa, eight of the accused appeared before the Thabazimbi Magistrates’ Court on 11 February 2025, facing charges of fraud, corruption, and contravention of the National Road Traffic Act. Each was granted bail of R3,000, and their case was postponed to 3 June 2025 for further police investigations.
Officials speak out
Brigadier Desmond Alexander, acting provincial head of the Hawks in Limpopo, commended the operation, emphasising the importance of eliminating corruption in licensing centres. RTMC CEO advocate Makhosini Msibi echoed this sentiment, stating that such fraud undermines government efforts to improve road safety. “By ensuring that only qualified drivers are on the road, we can reduce the number of accidents and fatalities,” he said.
The authorities are not done yet. “The team is still busy with the operation to address fraud and corruption-related offenses within Limpopo,” Brigadier Alexander. “More arrests are imminent.”
Licensing services disrupted
In light of the ongoing investigation, the Thabazimbi Local Municipality has temporarily suspended all driver’s license and learner’s tests.
“We understand the inconvenience this may cause,” a municipal statement read, “and we assure the public that we are actively working to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.” Affected applicants will be contacted regarding rescheduling or alternative arrangements.
For those needing immediate licensing services, the nearest alternative testing centres are in Northam and Brits.
Main photo: Busted in Thabazimbi — seven suspects stand against a wall, heads down,
as law enforcement finalises their arrest procedures.