CRIME SCENE: Rustenburg, North West Province: Three people have appeared in the Magistrates Court here for defrauding the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality of over R1,3 million.

Vincent Mkhwanazi (38), Sibusiso Kunene (44) and Thembeka Zukula (44) appeared in court on Tuesday, 22 September 2026, facing charges of fraud, money laundering and theft.

They were granted bail of R1 000 each and their case was remanded to 30 November 2026.

Reports indicate that an audit conducted by the municipality allegedly revealed that money was irregularly transferred from the municipality’s bank account without authorisation and substantiating documentation. 

The matter was reported to the Hawks for further investigation. Following an extensive investigation, the accused were arrested on Sunday, 20 September 2026 for fraud, money laundering and theft.