POLOKWANE – Socialite and multi-fraud accused Peter “Gagash” Nonyane has laid bare his income and business interests as he fought for bail in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.

In a supplementary affidavit, the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) officer told the court how he earns a living from entertainment-related work.

What he earns

Nonyane said he negotiates and books artists for events. According to the affidavit, around R80 000 is deposited into his bank account weekly for bookings, which he uses to pay artists and retains the balance as profit. He estimates his personal income from this at about R100 000 per month, but says it fluctuates depending on bookings.

He also disclosed earnings from his annual co-hosted birthday celebration. He said the most recent edition generated about R700 000 for him after his business partner deducted their share. He said he attached a confirmation letter, ticket-sales report and proof of payments to support this claim.

In addition, he said he earns from music streaming platforms, but cannot provide a fixed monthly figure as it depends on streams.

Risk of losing employment

Nonyane argued his continued detention is affecting his ability to work, generate income and maintain business relationships in the entertainment industry, and that he risks losing employment.

Questions over affordability

However, according to a witness from the TMPD who testified in court, Nonyane earns a gross salary of approximately R31 000 per month, leaving him with a take-home pay of R11 026 after deductions, raising questions about his affordability versus the recent earnings he highlighted.

Bail conditions offered

To address the state’s opposition, Nonyane offered strict conditions:

• That he would not evade trial
• Not interfere with witnesses
• Not tamper with evidence
• To share his live location with the investigating officer
• To wear an electronic ankle-monitoring device

He asked the court to release him on bail at an amount and on conditions the court deems appropriate.

The charges

Nonyane, a second accused, and his wife, attorney Charlotte Tibane (33), the alleged mastermind and first accused, remain before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court facing 43 charges of fraud and money laundering.

It is alleged they defrauded five families of funds from deceased estate accounts between 2024 and this year, and allegedly spent the money on a luxurious lifestyle including cars, branded clothes and houses.

Hearing continues

The bail hearing continues today, Thursday.