Police arrest another suspect in Gagashe, wife's R11m estate fraud case

Police have arrested another suspect in the case involving Peter Nonyane, popularly known as Gagashe, and his wife, attorney Charlotte Tibana, who are implicated in an alleged R11 million deceased-estates fraud and money laundering scheme in Limpopo.

Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Avele Fumba said the 53-year-old suspect, who works as an estate controller at the Office of the Master of the High Court, was arrested on Tuesday by the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team, working alongside the SAPS Provincial Tactical Response Team.

The official is accused of corruption dating back to 2023, with investigators alleging that he abused his position by facilitating the referral of deceased-estate clients to Tibana's legal practice.

Fumba said the investigation was aimed at establishing the circumstances surrounding the alleged referrals.

The broader investigation centres on allegations of fraud, theft and money laundering involving approximately R11 million allegedly misappropriated from 15 deceased estates.

The case has already resulted in the arrest of Tibana, Nonyane and other co-accused.

Investigators are probing whether the alleged referrals formed part of a wider scheme involving the unlawful handling of funds belonging to deceased estates.

The newly arrested official is expected to appear alongside Tibana in the Polokwane Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, November 10.

Limpopo Hawks provincial head Major General Gopz Govender said investigators would pursue all leads, regardless of the positions held by those implicated.

"The Hawks will follow the money and pursue every lead, regardless of who is involved or the position they hold. No one is above the law and no public office must ever become a gateway to personal enrichment," Govender said.

He said the investigation would remain focused on ensuring accountability and justice without fear, favour or prejudice.