Pretoria Central police are cautioning residents to refrain from using the legal services of Thobejane PM Attorneys, following the arrest and court appearance of former attorney, Petrus Makhabane Thobejane, who allegedly defrauded clients out of more than R7.7-million.

The arrest comes after 32 cases were opened against Thobejane at Pretoria Central SAPS.

According to the police, the suspect was instructed by his clients to attend to the transfer of properties on their behalf.

Monies were received into the trust account of Thobejane PM Attorneys in respect of the purchase price and transfer fees.

Thobejane is accused of not attending to the transfer of these documents and also not paying over the proceeds of the sale of these properties to the purchasers.

It has been determined that he defrauded his client of money amounting to more than R7.7-million.

Detective branch commander, Colonel Ndala, assigned the docket to the fraud tracing team, who traced and arrested Thobejane in Midrand last week. He appeared at the Pretoria Magistrate’s court this week.

“He remains in custody pending further investigation and a formal bail application. While the investigation is taking place, we urge those who have fallen victim to come forward and lodge their complaints. The syndicate where most of the crime was taking place was at 109 Central Towers, 286 Pretoria Street, Pretoria,” said Central police spokesperson, Constable Thabang Nkhumise.

Police confirmed that Thobejane’s licence to practise was suspended on September 23, 2023, and he was struck from the roll of legal practitioners on March 5, 2024.

For further information or inquiries, people can contact the investigating team, Warrant Officer H Nabal on 083 443 8872 or Sergeant F Mahlangu on 078 593 0350.

Residents are assured that their assistance and feedback will be highly appreciated.

People can report anonymously if they wish to the following numbers: Crime Stop 08600 10111, SAPS Emergency number 10111 or mobile emergency number 112.

Alternatively, they can download the MySAPS App or directly contact the station on 012 353 5001.

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