Hawks arrest 37‑year‑old in R45m Mogalakwena tender fraud probe

Authorities have arrested a 37‑year‑old suspect in a R45 million tender fraud probe linked to Mogalakwena Local Municipality. According to The Citizen, the arrest was made by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, after an inquiry into a fleet management tender advertised and awarded by the municipality in 2022.

Arrest and court appearance

The Citizen reports the suspect is expected to appear before the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 17 September 2026.

What investigators say

Preliminary inquiries allegedly found that the procurement process for the fleet management tender was not conducted in accordance with prescribed procedures, The Citizen says. Investigators are following the money trail and examining the involvement of individuals and private entities allegedly linked to the tender.

“The investigation is probing potential financial prejudice to the municipality estimated at approximately R45 million. A legal entity allegedly linked to the arrested suspect has also been identified as part of the investigation.” The Citizen, quoting Hawks spokesperson Avele Fumba

More arrests expected

The Citizen reports that investigators warned the probe is far from over and that more arrests are imminent as they pursue outstanding leads.

“More arrests are imminent as investigators continue to pursue outstanding leads and follow the evidence wherever it takes them. Members of the public who may have information that could assist the investigation are encouraged to come forward. Information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, subject to the applicable legal framework,” Hawks spokesperson Avele Fumba said, as reported by The Citizen.

Message from Hawks leadership

The Citizen quotes Limpopo Hawks Provincial Head Major General (Adv.) Gopz Govender emphasising the consequences of alleged abuse of public funds.

“Every rand entrusted to a municipality carries the hopes and needs of the people it is meant to serve. When that trust is allegedly betrayed, the Hawks will not look away. We will follow the evidence, follow the money and follow every lead, regardless of where it takes us. Those who have abused public resources must know that the law has a long reach. We will act without fear or favour, firmly, professionally and within the law,” Govender said, according to The Citizen.

Investigations remain ongoing, The Citizen reports.