A Tshwane metro police officer and his attorney wife have been arrested over an alleged R3 million fraud involving two deceased estates.
Peter Nonyane, 36, and Charlotte Tibana, 33, appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court after being accused of unlawfully withdrawing and laundering money belonging to the estates.
Both were remanded in custody, with their bail application expected to be heard on Friday. The allegations against them have not yet been proven in court.
Mercedes purchase raised red flags
According to the National Prosecuting Authority, investigators began scrutinising the couple after concerns emerged about money used to buy a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz AMG G63.
The State alleges that on 28 October 2024, funds were unlawfully transferred from a deceased estate trust account into another estate account.
Payments of R1.65 million and R100,000 were then allegedly made to a Mercedes-Benz dealership in Wonderboom, Pretoria.
NPA spokesperson Mashudu Malabi said investigators believe approximately R1.75 million was unlawfully withdrawn from that estate.
Attorney allegedly facilitated transfers
The State alleges Tibana acted as executor of the two deceased estates and authorised or facilitated transfers that caused losses to beneficiaries.
Investigators claim portions of the money were deposited into Nonyane’s bank account and later used to purchase the Mercedes.
The dealership reportedly became suspicious after Nonyane could not provide proof explaining the source of the funds and referred the matter to the Hawks.
Nonyane, who is also known on social media as “Lamasweet” and “Greater Gagash Municipality”, had regularly posted content featuring expensive cars, clothing and events.
TMPD launches internal investigation
Nonyane was arrested in Pretoria on Friday, while Tibana was arrested in Polokwane on Monday.
The Tshwane Metro Police Department has since opened an internal disciplinary investigation into Nonyane.
TMPD said it had not ruled out issuing him with a notice of intention to suspend while the internal and criminal processes continue.
The department said it maintains a zero-tolerance approach to criminality and misconduct within its ranks.