Gauteng traffic cop, accomplice nabbed in brazen extortion scheme

A Gauteng Traffic Police officer and civilian accomplice face extortion and corruption charges after allegedly shaking down a local business for monthly protection money.

The duo, both aged 50, will appear in Lenasia Magistrate Court on Thursday following their dramatic arrest during an undercover sting operation.

The scheme unraveled when a business owner reported repeated shakedowns by the uniformed officer, who allegedly threatened to revoke operating licenses unless paid R10,000 monthly.

The brazen pair escalated their demands this week, storming the premises to arrest an employee before releasing the worker in exchange for R3,000 cash and critical business certificates.

Hawks investigators laid a trap after the suspects demanded the remaining R7,000 balance.

Warrant Officer Thatohatsi Mavimbela confirmed authorities caught the pair red-handed during Tuesday’s exchange at Zakarya Park, recovering both the cash and documents.

Gauteng Hawks commander Major General Ebrahim Kadwa praised investigators while issuing a blunt warning to corrupt officials: “We’re watching. This arrest shows no one’s above the law – not even those sworn to uphold it.