MOPANI – A policeman, Sgt Peter Machubini (28), briefly appeared in the Bolobedu Magistrate's Court last Wednesday on a charge of corruption. He was arrested the previous day at the Bokwakwaila Satellite Police Station where he was stationed.

According to the spokesperson of the police in Mopani, Insp Hasani Mabaso, it is alleged that the suspect was taking bribes from members of the community, when he rendered his official services to them. The statement indicates that Machubini charged residents anything from R10 to R50 for any service he rendered to a community member.

The issue came into the spotlight when the people started complaining about the poor treatment they were experiencing from the police station. This resulted in the police detectives receiving a tip-off from residents that they were paying R20 to have an affidavit completed on their behalf.

A group of young women was then sent to the police station by police detectives to request the completion of affidavits on their behalf. At the time Machubini was on duty. Machubini allegedly ordered each of them to pay an amount of R20 beforehand, or else they wouldn't be assisted.

The issue was reported to the detectives and the suspect was arrested. He was not asked to plead during his first court appearance. He was released after paying bail of R6 000. He is expected to appear in the same court on Thursday, August 14