Hawks Arrest Suspect in R45 Million Mogalakwena Municipality Tender Investigation
MOKOPANE, LIMPOPO — The Hawks have arrested a 37-year-old suspect in connection with an investigation into alleged fraud, corruption and money laundering involving a R45 million fleet-management tender awarded by Mogalakwena Local Municipality in 2022.
The suspect was arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team following an extensive probe into the municipality’s procurement process.
According to preliminary findings, investigators suspect that the tender process may not have been conducted in accordance with prescribed procurement procedures.
The investigation has since expanded to include the movement of funds linked to the tender, with investigators examining the possible involvement of individuals and private entities allegedly connected to the procurement process.
The Hawks estimate that the municipality may have suffered financial prejudice of approximately R45 million.
Investigators have also identified a legal entity allegedly linked to the arrested suspect as part of the ongoing investigation.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court on 17 September 2026.
The Hawks have warned that the investigation remains ongoing and that further arrests could follow as investigators pursue outstanding leads and examine additional evidence.
Members of the public with information that could assist the investigation have been urged to come forward. The Hawks said information would be handled confidentially, subject to the applicable legal framework.
Limpopo Hawks provincial head Major General (Adv.) Gopz Govender said the arrest demonstrated the seriousness with which allegations involving public funds are being treated.
“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,” Govender said.
He added that investigators would continue following the evidence and financial trail.
The suspect has not been convicted of any offence and is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The investigation continues.
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