After two additional arrests were made on Monday 30 August 2021, relating to the Mogalakwena alleged tender corruption, Hawks impersonators saw the opportunity for a scam.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation has announced that suspects’ kin need to be aware that calls from Hawks impersonators are expected and should be reported to the police immediately. With Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation assisted by Limpopo Highway Patrol and Naboomspruit Crime Prevention members a total of 15 suspects and 13 companies were arrested.
What do these Hawks Impersonators want?
Phone calls that have already been received by some of the arrested’s kin requested that money be paid for bail or promise to destroy the case against them.
Mogalakwena alleged tender corruption
In a case that has unfolded, police have made it public that over R15 million has been lost by the Municipality due to these illegal activities. These illegal activities included service providers offering officials gifts for other companies to be paid money for services not rendered. During the operation, a BMW 1 series belonging to the girlfriend of one of the suspects was seized as an affected gift.
A statement from the Police department said, “We would like to put it on record that our members would not call and demand money for anything as we do not run a cash business. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the Hawks and demand money, know that you are about to be scammed.” People are urged to immediately contact the nearest police station.
All the suspects are expected to make their first appearance in the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court today, on 1 September 2021.
Media Statement: Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS)