Two employees who work for City Power’s contractor, were arrested on Tuesday, by a joint operation with the Hawks’ Anti-Corruption Unit.
The two were arrested on allegations they demanded a payment of R46 000 from a customer, in exchange for unlawfully reversing an electricity account that reflected an outstanding debt of approximately R149 000 owed to the City.
The customer refused to participate in the illegal arrangement and instead reported the matter to the City Power Corporate Investigations Unit.
The Hawks then arranged to set up the two, using an amount of R15 000, of marked notes.
The operation was executed and the suspects were found in possession of the marked R15 000 shortly after receiving the money.
They were arrested on site and detained.
Tshifularo Mashava, the outgoing CEO of City Power, said the power utility is reviewing contractual arrangements and oversight mechanisms relating to the contractor involved, to determine whether further action is required.
“We view this matter in an extremely serious light. Any attempt to solicit bribes, manipulate accounts or unlawfully interfere with billing systems undermines public trust and constitutes criminal conduct. Our zero tolerance approach to corruption applies equally to employees, contractors and service providers, and those found guilty will face both criminal prosecution and internal consequences” she said.
Picture: Supplied