The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in Limpopo, or the Hawks, have arrested a 37-year-old suspect in connection with an alleged R45 million fraud, corruption and money-laundering investigation involving a fleet management tender awarded by the Mogalakwena Local Municipality.

The suspect was arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team following an extensive probe into the tender, which was advertised and awarded by the municipality in 2022.

According to the Hawks, preliminary findings suggest that the procurement process was allegedly not conducted in accordance with prescribed procedures.

Investigators, according to Hawks spokesperson in Limpopo Colonel Avele Fumba, said they are now tracing the flow of money and examining the involvement of individuals and private entities allegedly linked to the tender.

The Hawks said a legal entity allegedly linked to the arrested suspect has also been identified as part of the investigation.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Mokopane Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, September 17, 2026.

The law enforcement agency warned that the investigation remains ongoing and that more arrests are expected as investigators pursue outstanding leads.

Provincial Head of the Hawks in Limpopo, Major General (Adv.) Gopz Govender said the arrest demonstrated the seriousness with which allegations involving public funds are being treated.

“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,” Govender said.

“We will follow the evidence, follow the money and follow every lead, regardless of where it takes us.”
Govender said those found to have abused public resources would face the consequences of the law.

“We will act without fear or favour, firmly, professionally and within the law,” he said.

The Hawks appealed to members of the public with information that could assist the investigation to come forward.