Limpopo Vehicle Testing Official Jailed for Fraud in RTMC-Backed Ruling

In a strong statement against corruption within the vehicle testing sector, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has welcomed the sentencing of Kabelo Chilenge, a 37-year-old vehicle examiner, to six years of direct imprisonment for fraudulently issuing a roadworthy certificate without conducting the mandatory physical inspection of the vehicle.

The ruling, delivered by the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court, marks a significant milestone in efforts to cleanse the road traffic certification system and strengthen accountability and safety standards in South Africa's transport sector.

Fraudulent Certification Exposed

The court heard that Chilenge, who worked at Quick Test, a privately-owned vehicle testing station in Modimolle, Limpopo, issued a roadworthy certificate in April 2022 for a vehicle that was, in fact, not even accessible for inspection. It was later discovered that the vehicle was being held in a police pound at the time the certificate was issued.

The fraudulent act raised serious concerns over compromised road safety, as unroadworthy vehicles certified for use could pose lethal risks on public roads. Although no direct evidence was presented to prove that Chilenge personally benefitted from the act, the court ruled that the nature of the misconduct implied personal gain, or at the very least, willful dereliction of professional duty.

Court Rejects Suspended Sentence

In handing down the sentence, the court rejected the possibility of a suspended sentence, emphasizing that:

• Chilenge earned a stable salary, removing financial desperation as a motive

• His actions represented a breach of public trust

• Issuing false roadworthiness certificates endangers public safety

• A custodial sentence would send a strong deterrent message to others

The court asserted that roadworthiness certification is a public safety imperative, not just an administrative formality, and stressed the responsibility that rests on vehicle testing officials to uphold professional ethics.

RTMC: A Just and Appropriate Sentence

In response to the verdict, the RTMC issued a public statement applauding the outcome as both just and necessary. The Corporation emphasized that illegal certification of unroadworthy vehicles is a key contributor to road crashes and fatalities, undermining national efforts to create safer roads.

“The RTMC feels that this sentence is appropriate and serves as a deterrent to others who are involved in such unlawful activities,” said the Corporation.

The ruling aligns with the RTMC’s broader objective of eradicating fraud, enhancing compliance, and ensuring that only roadworthy vehicles are allowed to operate, thereby protecting the lives of road users.

Public Vigilance Encouraged

To aid in the ongoing crackdown on road-related corruption, the RTMC has called on citizens to report any suspected cases of:

• Certificate fraud

• Bribery

• Irregular testing station operations

Reports can be made via:

• Email: ntacu@rtmc.co.za

• WhatsApp: 083 293 7989

The RTMC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting whistleblowers and following up with thorough investigations and legal proceedings where applicable.

A Broader Push for Road Integrity

The case of Kabelo Chilenge is not isolated, but part of a wider issue facing South Africa’s road management systems. With over 14,000 road fatalities recorded annually, the need for systematic integrity in roadworthiness testing is more urgent than ever.

As part of ongoing reforms, the RTMC continues to:

• Monitor and audit vehicle testing centers

• Train and certify inspectors

• Collaborate with law enforcement for sting operations

• Push for the digitalization of certification processes to prevent tampering

A Victory for Justice and Road Safety

The sentencing of a corrupt vehicle examiner sends a resounding message that compromise in public safety will not be tolerated. With RTMC’s active support, the judiciary has affirmed that fraud in any part of the transport system—no matter how seemingly minor—can have deadly consequences, and thus merits serious legal action.

As South Africa works toward safer roads, reduced accidents, and a more transparent transport system, this judgment stands as a crucial benchmark in the fight against traffic-related corruption.