Five Face Court Over R2.3 Million Fraud

Five individuals appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on 15 January 2026, accused of defrauding a company of over R2.3 million.

The accused – Umkhonto Maropola (36), Kgopotso Marapola (30), Johannes Sathekge (37), Kgaugelo Malebana (32), and Kgopotso Mohlake (35) – were arrested after handing themselves over to the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit on 13 and 14 January.

The allegations relate to a 2023 water project tender awarded by Polokwane Local Municipality. Maropola, previously responsible for facilitating the tender, allegedly created fraudulent documents, appointed himself as a director, and opened a bank account in the company’s name. This resulted in a payment of over R2.3 million into the account, which was later shared among several individuals who did not provide the services.

Following an investigation by the Hawks, the accused were granted bail of R20 000 each. The case has been postponed to 27 March 2026.

Major General Gopz Govender, Provincial Head of the Hawks in Limpopo, commended the diligence of the investigating officers.