staff reporter
Atamelang- Former constable, G J Melamu (34) appeared before Regional Court in Wolmaranstad on charges of corruption.
The constable who had spent nine-years of his police service as a Constable was stationed at Sannieshof Stock Theft Unit.
On Saturday, 15 October 2011 information was received that constable Melamu had his hands on the cookie jar, this was after he was caught demanding an outstanding amount of R2000.00 from Atamelang two suspects accused of stealing stock in Atamelang.
It was reported that the Constable on two occasions an amount of R3000.00 was already paid to him in order to withdraw stock theft cases against the two accused.
“According to the two, Constable made arrangements to collect the outstanding balance at Ottosdal town. This appointment was scheduled for Saturday, 12 October 2011, for the delivery of cash, but the constable did not show up. Later that day they rescheduled to meet in Klerksdorp the following day and again for some reason he could not make it” Sergeant Nkwalase. Said.
However, he alternatively requested the suspects to bring the money in Wolmaransstad on the 15 October 2011.
A controlled action was set up for him by the North West Hawks, Anti Corruption Unit who accompanied the with the suspects to Wolmaransstad Engine Garage in Broad street.
The suspects handed R2000 to him at the garage parking where after the Hawks moved in and Constable Melamu was arrested.
The state money was later recovered in his possession, on Friday and after a long trial he was found guilty of corruption and sentenced to three years imprisonment.
She sternly warns perpetrators of corruption that they actions will not go unpunished . She said corruption within our ranks remains one of our worst enemy in the 21st century.
The Guardian 