The municipal manager of Blouberg Municipality in Limpopo, Refilwe Jonas Ramothwala, and two directors of a security company, Sello Herlot Mongalo and Ngoako Nicolas Thoka, appeared before the Senwabarwana Magistrate’s Court. They are linked to an alleged fraudulent security services tender worth over R11 million. The trio were arrested on September 23, 2026, following an investigation into the awarding and implementation of a security services tender by the municipality.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson Mashudu Malabi, the municipality awarded the tender to BBT Security Services in March 2023. However, the company allegedly submitted fraudulent tender documents. Malabi stated that BBT Security Services failed to meet key technical requirements, including those relating to the ownership of firearms needed to provide the contracted security services.
Despite the alleged non-compliance, BBT Security Services continued to provide security services to the municipality and received payments over a period of about three years. The NPA said the payments amounted to more than R11 million. The three accused collectively face 73 charges, including theft, fraud, and money laundering. Ramothwala faces an additional charge relating to the alleged contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003.
Ramothwala also has a separate pending fraud matter before the Hoedspruit Regional Court. The trial in that matter is scheduled to proceed on October 16, 2026. The charges against BBT Security Services and its two directors relate to the alleged irregular awarding and implementation of the municipal security tender.
The accused did not apply for bail during their initial appearance. The matter was postponed to October 1, 2026, for a formal bail application. The NPA said it remained committed to ensuring accountability in cases involving fraud, corruption, and the alleged misuse of public funds.
The NPA emphasized that it would continue prosecuting such matters without fear, favour, or prejudice. This case highlights the ongoing efforts to address corruption and ensure accountability in the use of public funds. The Blouberg Municipality has not commented on the matter.
The case has been postponed to a later date, and the accused will have to appear in court again for further proceedings. The outcome of the case will be closely watched, given the significant amount of money involved and the senior positions of those accused.
Key points
- The municipal manager and two security directors face 73 charges, including theft, fraud, and money laundering.
- The alleged fraudulent tender was worth over R11 million and involved a security services contract.
- The case has been postponed to October 1, 2026, for a formal bail application.
