Convicted Man Warns Airport Officials: ‘Corruption Costs You Your Freedom, Family And Reputation’
A man serving an effective 30-year sentence for corruption, fraud, theft and money laundering told officials at OR Tambo International Airport today, Friday that the price of graft is paid through lost freedom, family and reputation.
Bongani Edgar Letlaola was among incarcerated offenders who addressed the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum (BMIACF) quarterly campaign at the airport. The forum, chaired by the Special Investigating Unit, previously held campaigns at land borders including Lebombo, Beitbridge, Maseru Bridge and Oshoek.
Border Management Authority Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the authority was reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and misconduct at ports of entry.
Leaders, including Home Affairs director-general Tommy Makhode, signed an anti-corruption pledge, while officials heard testimony from convicted offenders about the personal and financial consequences of corruption.
Masiapato said 22 BMA disciplinary cases had been finalised, with 17 resulting in dismissals, while 33 cases remained in progress. Most involved staff based at OR Tambo.
SIU spokesperson Zodwa Xesibe said corruption is not a victimless crime and warned that whistleblowers often bear the consequences first. The next quarterly campaign will be held at a seaport.I can also make it while keeping all the important figures.
