Limpopo: The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has expressed approval of the recent sentencing of a vehicle testing official tied to fraudulent activities at a privately owned testing station in Limpopo.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court handed down a six-year direct imprisonment sentence to 37-year-old Kabelo Chilenge. Chilenge was found guilty of fraudulently issuing a vehicle roadworthy certificate without conducting a physical examination of the vehicle. The vehicle, at the time, was held in a police pound, making the issuance of the certificate in April 2022 at Quick Test vehicle testing station in Modimolle both inappropriate and illegal.

Despite the absence of evidence indicating personal gain from the transaction, the court inferred that such actions likely involved some form of gratification. The court determined that a suspended sentence was inadequate, emphasizing the potential danger unroadworthy vehicles pose when allowed on the roads. It highlighted that Chilenge, who earned a salary, had no justification for his actions.

The RTMC commented on the case, stating, “The RTMC feels that this sentence is appropriate and serves as a deterrent to others who are involved in such unlawful activities.” The organization is urging the public to report any suspected fraud and corruption through available channels, including email at ntacu@rtmc.co.za or via WhatsApp at 083 293 7989.