A 28-year-old security guard, Lucky Vala, appeared at the Standerton Magistrate’s Court today, on various charges including, fraud, theft as well as impersonating a senior prosecutor.
The suspect was arrested yesterday, 01 September 2020, at Standerton during a police operation.
According to information received, Vala, who is stationed at Standerton Magistrate’s Court, is accused of soliciting bribes under false pretence from unsuspecting members of the public to reduce their traffic fines.
He would apparently lure the public in by pretending he is a senior prosecutor, take their money, then go to a private office to reduce the fines illegally.
His cover was blown when several complaints were made from people who had not received their receipts as proof of payment.
The matter was reported to the police, who in turn initiated an operation into the matter and arrested the suspect.
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During the arrest, Vala was found in possession of traffic fines, date stamps as well as reduction affidavits.
Vala was remanded in custody and will appear at the same court tomorrow, 03 September 2020 for formal bail application.
