The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit arrested Malane Abraham Letsapa (45) and Moreotsile Israel Olifant (50) on Saturday, 16 August 2025, in connection with an alleged fraud scheme involving a failed public works project in the Dr Ruth Mompati District Municipality.
Letsapa, the former Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) District Coordinator, and Olifant, a former PR Councillor in the municipality, were apprehended in Vryburg and Taung, respectively.
According to reports, the Dr Ruth Mompati District Municipality had approved the implementation of the Presidential Stimulus Project (PSP) in December 2020 under the Department of Public Works and Roads’ EPWP. The project was meant to clear trees and grass along the main road leading to Matsheng and Tlapeng villages in the Greater Taung Municipality.
However, investigations revealed that while Olifant allegedly facilitated the selection of beneficiaries, Letsapa processed payment claims for three months—despite no work being done. This fraudulent activity reportedly cost the Department over R87,000.
The accused appeared in the High Court of South Africa’s North West Division in Mahikeng on Sunday, 17 August 2025, where they were each granted R2,000 bail. Their case has been postponed to Monday, 18 August 2025, when they are set to appear in the Taung Magistrates’ Court to face fraud charges.
The Hawks have warned that further arrests are possible as investigations continue.
