The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation welcomes the sentencing of a former Seshego District Court Public Prosecutor, Guesta Rhulani Maboela (49) to five (5) years direct imprisonment for corruption by the Seshego Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 28 April 2023.
During May 2019, the accused in her professional capacity as a Public Prosecutor demanded R1500-00 gratification from a complainant who was arrested for driving under the influence of liquor in order to withdraw the charges against him.
The complainant reported the matter to the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation and a swift undercover operation was conducted. The operation resulted in the arrest of Maboela at her workplace immediately after receiving a gratification.
As the investigation progressed, it was discovered that the case of driving under the influence of liquor against the complainant was indeed withdrawn. Maboela was convicted by the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in Polokwane on 8 November 2022. Since then, she was on her extended bail until she was sentenced.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks Major General Gopz Govender has lauded both the investigation and prosecution teams for their sterling work. “We are determined to fight the scourge of corruption without fear or favour”. Said Major General Govender.