R2.8 Million Theft Charge: Former Curro East Lynne Clerk on Bail

Pretoria school theft case draws public attention

Pretoria’s quiet suburb of East Lynne has been rattled by allegations that a trusted school staff member stole millions from Curro East Lynne. Haranet Chunisa Ullow Loetries, a 39-year-old former accounting clerk, appeared before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court this week facing a charge of theft involving more than R2.8 million.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says the alleged crime took place between August 2024 and July 2025 while Loetries was still employed at the school. During that period, she is accused of transferring large sums into bank accounts registered in her own name.

The theft was reportedly uncovered during an internal audit, prompting the school to contact the police. Loetries handed herself over to authorities on Tuesday, 12 August 2025, and was formally arrested.

Bail granted with strict conditions

The State did not oppose bail, citing verified residential details, no prior convictions, and no pending cases. Loetries was granted bail of R15 000 but under conditions that the NPA describes as “stringent.”

She must report to Villieria Police Station every Monday and Friday between 6am and 8pm, may not apply for similar work in accounting or finance, and cannot interfere with witnesses. Any travel outside the district must be cleared with the investigating officer in advance.

Case moves to specialised court

The matter has been postponed to 25 August 2025 for transfer to the Pretoria Commercial Crimes Court, which specialises in complex fraud and financial crime cases.

Cases like this have often sparked heated public debate in South Africa over workplace trust, school financial oversight, and how large-scale thefts can go undetected for months. In recent years, internal audits and whistleblowing have become key tools in exposing such crimes, but critics say prevention should be stronger to protect both institutions and the communities they serve.

Also read: Ramaphosa: National Dialogue South Africa 2025 Moves Ahead

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Source: IOL 

Featured Image: Deccan Herald