Zimbabwean Businessman Found Guilty in SA After Offering Cops R60,000 Bribe Over Identity Document
A Zimbabwean businessman living in South Africa has been convicted for attempting to bribe investigators to halt a probe into his identity document. Prince Dube, the director of Intsukuzonke Motors, offered R60,000 (US$3,353) to a Wesbank forensic investigator to stop an investigation that could have jeopardised his business dealings.
According to Lieutenant-Colonel Lloyd Ramovha, the police spokesperson, the investigation revealed that Dube’s identity document had been flagged for deletion by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
“This deletion would have resulted in the immediate termination of Dube’s contract with Wesbank,” Ramovha said.
Dube’s troubles began on 3 April 2024 when he approached the Wesbank investigator with the bribe.
“He offered the money in an attempt to protect his contract to repair a government fleet of vehicles,” added Ramovha.
“Instead of accepting the bribe, the investigator promptly reported the matter to the Serious Commercial Crimes Investigation (SCCI) office in Johannesburg.”
Businessman Caught in Bribery Scandal
Prince Dube’s arrest followed swift action by the authorities. After the bribery attempt was reported, the Serious Commercial Crimes Investigation (SCCI) team sought authorisation for a sting operation.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ramovha explained,
“A search and seizure operation was executed on 5 April 2024 with the approval of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Dube was arrested at Wesbank offices in Fairlands upon handing over the money.”
Confronted with overwhelming evidence, Dube pleaded guilty to the charges of corruption.
Arrest and Conviction
On 11 December 2024, the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court delivered its verdict. Dube was sentenced to a fine of R60,000 or six years’ imprisonment.
Half of the sentence was suspended for five years, conditional upon him not committing a similar offence during this period.
Major General Ebrahim Kadwa lauded the team’s efforts.
“This case is a testament to the dedication and skill of our investigators and prosecutors,” he said. “We are immensely proud of their swift and effective pursuit of justice.”
Police Commend the Investigation
The police used the opportunity to remind the public of the dangers of corruption.
“This outcome is a clear message that bribery and corruption will not be tolerated,” Ramovha stated.
The case serves as a warning to those who might consider similar actions, highlighting the importance of integrity and accountability in all sectors.
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The post R60,000 Bribe Backfires For SA-based Zimbabwean Businessman After Investigation Into Identity Documents appeared first on iHarare News.
