"We are sending out a stern warning to our communities that we will do everything within our powers to put people behind bars for abusing state resources by opening false cases. Opening a false case is a criminal offence and it is punishable by law. All those who are still thinking of doing the same should refrain from doing so, because they will be prosecuted and may face many years in prison. By opening false cases, valuable state resources which could have been used to help others who need it, is wasted and it will not be tolerated," said KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commander, Major General Langa.
His comments come after Durban Central police arrested a 29-year-old man for opening a false case. On 6 November 2016, the suspect sold his employer's vehicle near the police station. He left with the money and later reported that the cash from the sale of the car was taken after he was robbed by unknown men as he was leaving. Police conducted an investigation which led to his arrest after it was discovered that he lied about the robbery. The suspect was immediately arrested and charged for perjury and defeating the ends of justice. He appeared at the Durban Magistrates Court yesterday.