THOHOYANDOU, LIMPOPO – April 3, 2025 — A 28-year-old intern from the Department of Transport in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, has appeared in court following his arrest for allegedly running a job scam targeting hopeful applicants.
The suspect, Lutendo Makgoka, was arrested on April 2 during a sting operation conducted by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit in collaboration with the DPCI Serious Corruption Investigation Unit in Musina. He now faces corruption charges and is scheduled to return to the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on April 17, 2025, for a formal bail application.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, Makgoka was caught soliciting R6,500 from job seekers in exchange for non-existent positions as Traffic Officers. A complaint was filed on April 1, prompting an urgent investigation and undercover operation.
“The suspect allegedly demanded R6,500 per person in exchange for securing a job,” Mashaba stated.
During the sting, Makgoka met with victims in the Thohoyandou policing area, accepted cash from them, and was immediately arrested. Authorities recovered R2,000 in cash during his arrest.
The investigation is still ongoing, and additional charges may be laid as more evidence is gathered.
“The Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit, in collaboration with the DPCI, is continuing the investigation,” Mashaba added.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by South African law enforcement to clamp down on employment-related corruption and protect vulnerable job seekers from exploitation.
