LIMPOPO – The Hawks have tightened the net around an alleged R45 million fraud, corruption and money laundering investigation involving the Mogalakwena Local Municipality, with a 37-year-old suspect arrested by the Serious Corruption Investigation team.
The arrest follows an extensive investigation into allegations relating to a fleet management tender advertised and awarded by the municipality in 2022.
Preliminary findings indicate that the procurement process was allegedly not conducted in accordance with prescribed procedures. Investigators are now following the money trail and examining the involvement of individuals and private entities allegedly linked to the tender.
The investigation is probing potential financial prejudice to the municipality estimated at approximately R45 million.
A legal entity allegedly linked to the arrested suspect has also been identified as part of the investigation.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court on the 17 September 2026.
The Hawks have warned that the investigation is far from over. More arrests are imminent as investigators continue to pursue outstanding leads and follow the evidence wherever it takes them.
Members of the public who may have information that could assist the investigation are encouraged to come forward. Information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, subject to the applicable legal framework.
Provincial Head of the Hawks in Limpopo, Major General (Adv.) Gopz Govender, said the arrest sends a clear message that public money cannot simply become private wealth.
“Every rand entrusted to a municipality carries the hopes and needs of the people it is meant to serve. When that trust is allegedly betrayed, the Hawks will not look away. We will follow the evidence, follow the money and follow every lead, regardless of where it takes us. Those who have abused public resources must know that the law has a long reach. We will act without fear or favour, firmly, professionally and within the law.”