Six municipal employees made their first appearance in court on Friday November 15 on charges of asphalt tar theft. They were arrested in Inanda on November 14.
They were found transporting the asphalt tar and failed to produce a job card to explain why and where they were transporting it to. The employees are from the Roads and Stormwater Maintenance Department at the eThekwini Municipality.
Forensic Investigators from the City Integrity and Investigations Unit (CIIU) together with the Metro Police received a tip off and pursued the employees. Their arrest coincided with an anti-fraud and corruption seminar which took place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) on November 14.
Head of the CIIU, Mr Jimmy Ngcobo said their arrest shows that the city means business when it comes to rooting out corruption.
“The team quickly acted on the information received and tactically monitored the movement of the two identified vehicles and suspects. They followed the vehicles for hours until they stopped in Ezimangweni, Inanda,” said Mr Ngcobo.
The suspects’ cellphones were seized and will be sent for analysis to determine the person behind the theft. Mr Ngcobo said the municipality has adopted a zero-tolerance stance against fraud, corruption, and the violation of human rights. Building an ethical, corruption-free organisation is a key focus for the city, Mr Ngcobo said.
Mr Ngcobo urged the public to report suspected crimes targeting municipal infrastructure.
“This arrest is a prime example of how theft of Municipal assets hampers service delivery in communities,” he said.
The public can report fraud and corruption by calling 0800 20 20 20 or email ombuds@durban.gov.za
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