Convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius targeted in scam attempt

South African police say Oscar Pistorius was the target of a scam in which a man posing as a prosecution official offered to quash the former track star’s murder conviction in exchange for USD 16,400.

Police say the 33-year-old man was arrested today next to a Pretoria courthouse after receiving an initial payment of USD 2,600 in a police sting operation. They say the man faces corruption charges.

A police statement says the man accused of masquerading as a National Prosecuting Authority official promised “to have Oscar Pistorius’ murder case destroyed.”

In a statement, Pistorius’ family commends police for their “swift and efficient” handling of the case.

South Africa’s highest court dismissed Pistorius’ appeal of his murder conviction for the death of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. Sentencing is scheduled for April 18.