A mayor of a Free State municipality as well as a former municipal manager recently appeared in court on several charges.

James Tseki (43), mayor of the Dihlabeng Local Municipality, and Busa Petrus Molatseli (57), former municipal manager, both appeared in the Bethlehem Magistrate’s Court on charges of fraud, theft, corruption, and money laundering.

According to Hawks spokesperson Zweli Mohobeleli they were granted bail of R5 000.

Mohobeleli says the arrest of the two was made by the Free State Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s Serious Corruption Investigation Unit following a complaint filed in December 2021 about irregular salary payments made to the former municipal manager.

After an intensive Hawks investigation, a warrant was issued for their arrest in May.

It is alleged that Molatseli, during a period when he was placed on suspension pending a separate criminal matter against him, submitted a memorandum to the mayor requesting back payment of his salary.

“It is further alleged that Tseki signed this memorandum without the approval of the council, thereby resulting in losses to the municipality amounting to about R250 000.”

Free State Hawks Commander Major General Mokgadi Bokaba praised the investigation team.

“They have worked tirelessly to piece together the investigation and present a strong case before the NPA. In keeping with our mandate, we will leave no stone unturned in pursuing anyone involved in corruption and looting of the public purse,” warns Bokaba.

The case against both suspects was postponed to August 10.