Two police sergeants, Ethel Ndifheleni Baloyi and John Moeketsi Maoba, both aged 42, have been arrested and charged with 12 counts of fraud and 12 counts of defeating the administration of justice after allegedly submitting fraudulent Department of Home Affairs statements. These actions resulted in the release of suspected illegal immigrants on bail, allowing them to evade trial.
The arrests took place on Friday, January 17, 2025, following a thorough investigation by the Hawks, South Africa’s serious corruption unit. According to Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Ramovha, Gauteng spokesperson for the Hawks, the case originated from a complaint filed by a representative of the Westonaria court, which suspected the officers of engaging in fraudulent activities that obstructed justice. The investigation, which began after the complaint was lodged in February 2024, confirmed that the officers, both stationed at Bekkersdal police station in Westonaria, had submitted the falsified statements to the Department of Home Affairs.
The alleged scheme involved the release of foreign nationals who were suspected of being in the country illegally, allowing them to avoid trial after being granted bail under false pretenses. The investigation by the West Rand-based serious corruption unit found the documents to be fraudulent, leading to the officers being referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions for prosecution.
Both Sergeants Baloyi and Maoba appeared in the Randfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday, and their bail applications were heard the following day. They were granted R1,000 bail each. The case was postponed to February 27, 2025, for further proceedings.
Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, the head of the Hawks in Gauteng, expressed his support for the arrests, emphasizing the department’s commitment to maintaining integrity and justice. “This statement reflects our unwavering commitment to upholding justice and integrity within our ranks,” Kadwa said.
The case marks a significant moment in the ongoing fight against corruption within South Africa’s police ranks, showcasing the Hawks’ dedication to holding law enforcement officers accountable for actions that undermine the legal system.
