A former correctional officer, accused of selling prison master keys that could open any cell in the country, appeared at the Boksburg Magistrate's Court Friday, Gauteng police said.

Ivan Pillay (38) briefly appeared in court to face charges of theft and defeating the ends of justice.

His case was remanded to 5 June, said Inspector Sanku Tsunke.

"He was arrested on May 11 at East Rand Mall during an undercover operation by police," he said.

Police nabbed him after they pretended to be buyers of the keys before negotiating a price.

"He was allegedly found in possession of three master keys used to open prison doors and passages. Those keys could be used to open any prison cell in the country."

On 13 May he was released on R10 000 bail.

Pillay worked as a locksmith at Boksburg Prison a few years ago.

Sapa

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