HOEDSPRUIT- Six people have been arrested and a juristic person implicated in alleged fraud, corruption, theft and money laundering involving the Maruleng Local Municipality, according to the Hawks.

The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit in Phalaborwa arrested the six people, aged between 25 and 57, during an intelligence-driven operation dubbed ‘Nasi Stocko’, conducted jointly with Mopani District Crime Prevention.

According to the Hawks, the arrests were made on Wednesday, September 23.

Building plan payments allegedly diverted

The Hawks say the investigation stems from information brought to the authorities’ attention on January 16, 2025. It alleged that municipal officials were processing building plan applications and diverting client payments into personal bank accounts instead of the municipality’s account.

A preliminary enquiry was registered, and further investigation allegedly uncovered irregularities and money laundering.

The Hawks allege the municipality lost about R1.16m.

Municipality distances itself

In a media statement, the municipality said it had noted the arrest of municipal employees in connection with alleged fraudulent conduct. It said a case was opened after a ratepayer complained about a suspected transaction involving municipal officials.

The municipality said it does not condone fraud or any misuse of its name, systems or resources, and will cooperate with law enforcement.

It stressed that the employees who were arrested are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court, and said it will not comment on the details of the case while the investigation continues.

Court appearance and more arrests

The six accused and the juristic person are expected to appear in the Hoedspruit Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday (September 30).

The Hawks say more arrests are imminent.

The provincial head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) in Limpopo, Major General Gopz Govender, welcomed the arrests and commended the Phalaborwa team and all role players involved.