| 2025/02/20 |
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Media Statement GAUTENG – As part of our ongoing efforts to eradicate corruption, the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit has successfully secured the conviction and sentencing of Lee-Ann Cloete, a 40-year-old immigration official, previously stationed at OR Tambo International Airport. The offence occurred on 07 September 2019. On the day in question, a Thai national arrived at OR Tambo International Airport from Thailand to visit her companion in Durban. Ms. Cloete, stationed at the immigration desk, inspected the travel documents and claimed they were not in order. She then demanded money from the traveller to allow entry into South Africa. With no cash on hand, the traveller contacted her companion, who subsequently transferred R3,000 through an E-Wallet service. Following the transaction, Ms. Cloete stamped the passport and permitted entry. The incident was reported and assigned to the Hawks for investigation. Following a thorough investigation, Ms. Cloete was arrested shortly thereafter. On 19 February 2025, she was convicted of corruption and sentenced to a R30, 000 fine or six years’ imprisonment, suspended for five years, by the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court. “We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of corruption or illegal activities. We remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the integrity of officials, especially those who are supposed to uphold the law,” said Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, the Provisional Head of the Hawks in Gauteng. Ends
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