A former adjudicator from the Department of Home Affairs, Phanuel Mokomo, has been found guilty of corruption by the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. His conviction on Wednesday follows an attempt to bribe an internal investigator with R10,000 to halt a probe into his misconduct.
Gauteng Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale, revealed that Mokomo was under investigation for the irregular issuance and approval of permits. When Mokomo offered the bribe, the investigator promptly reported the matter to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, in September 2018.
Entrapment Operation Catches Mokomo in the Act
An entrapment operation was authorised under Section 252A of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977. Mogale explained that the operation successfully led to Mokomo being caught offering the R10,000 bribe to the investigator. He was immediately arrested and charged with corruption.
Following several court appearances, Mokomo was officially found guilty. His sentencing is scheduled for 18 February 2025.
Hawks Reaffirm Commitment to Fighting Corruption
Colonel Mogale highlighted the significance of Mokomo’s conviction, stating that it underscores the Hawks’ commitment to eradicating corruption within public institutions. She commended the collaboration between investigative agencies, emphasising its role in holding public officials accountable.
“This conviction demonstrates the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in ensuring that corruption is addressed. The DPCI remains dedicated to rooting out corruption and safeguarding the integrity of public service delivery,” Mogale concluded.
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