By Phenyo Selinda
Polokwane – The former Municipal Manager and Acting Chief Financial Officer of the Greater Giyani Local Municipality, along with a local businessman, have recently appeared in the Polokwane Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in connection with a VBS corruption matter. This case involves a significant financial loss for the municipality, amounting to at least R153 million.
Key Accused:
1. Risimati Maluleke - Former Municipal Manager
2. Nditshedzeni Mashau - Acting Chief Financial Officer
3. Zwivhuya Goodness Tshishonga - Businessman
Charges and Allegations
The trio face serious charges, including contravening the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), corruption, and money laundering. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, outlined the specifics of the case. The accused are alleged to have approved an unlawful investment into VBS Mutual Bank, a financial institution not recognised as a bank under the Banks Act.
Details of the Alleged Offence
The municipality initially invested R100 million with VBS Mutual Bank, which matured and generated over R4 million in interest. Subsequently, an additional R48 million was invested. However, neither the principal amounts nor the accrued interest were repaid to the municipality.
Investigations revealed that these investments were made over 18 months, during which the Acting CFO recommended VBS Mutual Bank instead of authorised banks. This recommendation and subsequent investment actions have been described by the NPA as “grossly negligent” and in violation of the MFMA. The accused are charged with failing to ensure the municipality’s resources were used effectively, efficiently, and economically.
Money Laundering Allegations
Tshishonga, the businessman involved, allegedly received significant sums of money into his business account, Real Consulting. He then transferred a portion of these funds to Maluleke, the former Municipal Manager, disguising the link between the illicit investments and Maluleke. It is reported that Maluleke received a total of R62 000 through these transactions.
Next Court Appearance
The accused are scheduled to return to court in August, where they will continue to face these serious charges.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
________________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate