The Hawks have arrested a 53-year-old official employed at the Office of the Master of the High Court in Limpopo in connection with an ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of approximately R11 million from 15 deceased estates. The suspect, who works as an estate controller, was arrested on Tuesday on allegations of corruption dating back to 2023. According to Hawks spokesperson Colonel Avele Fumba, the arrest was carried out by the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team, working alongside the police Provincial Tactical Response Team.
The latest arrest marks another development in a widening investigation into alleged financial irregularities involving money belonging to deceased estates. Official accused of abusing position to refer clients to attorney According to Fumba, investigators are probing allegations that the official abused his position by directing deceased-estate clients to the legal practice of attorney Charlotte Tibana, who has already been arrested in connection with the investigation. The Hawks are investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged referrals and whether the official's conduct was linked to the suspected misappropriation of estate funds.
The investigation has already led to the arrests of Tibana, her husband Peter Nonyane, also known as Gagashe, and other co-accused. The broader case involves allegations of fraud, theft and money laundering relating to funds from 15 deceased estates. Investigators have not yet disclosed the full extent of the newly arrested official's alleged involvement or whether he personally benefited from the suspected financial irregularities.
Hawks vow to pursue officials implicated in corruption Limpopo Hawks head Major-General Advocate Gopz Govender warned that investigators would pursue all individuals implicated in the alleged corruption, regardless of their positions. Govender stated that the Hawks would follow the money and pursue every lead, regardless of who is involved or the position they hold.
No one is above the law and no public office must ever become a gateway to personal enrichment, Govender said. The Hawks remain resolute in ensuring accountability and justice, without fear, favour or prejudice. The investigation is ongoing as authorities seek to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged misappropriation of approximately R11 million.
The 53-year-old suspect was expected to appear alongside Tibana in the Polokwane Magistrate's Court soon. The Hawks' investigation involves a complex case with multiple accused and allegations of financial irregularities. Authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the corruption and bring all implicated individuals to justice.
The case highlights the Hawks' efforts to combat corruption and financial crimes in South Africa. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests may be made as authorities continue to follow leads and gather evidence. The Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team is working to ensure that those responsible for the alleged corruption are held accountable.
Key points
- The Hawks arrested a 53-year-old Master’s Office official in Limpopo linked to the R11 million deceased-estates corruption investigation.
- The investigation involves allegations of fraud, theft and money laundering relating to funds from 15 deceased estates.
- The Hawks vow to pursue officials implicated in corruption, regardless of their positions.
