Construction company defrauded of R12M, suspects nabbed

Limpopo Provincial Commercial Crime Unit has made significant progress in the fight against white-collar crime.

Three suspects, including a woman, have been arrested for allegedly defrauding one of the biggest construction companies in South Africa of over R12 million.

The suspects, aged between 37 and 48, were apprehended on separate occasions – two on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and the third on Monday, 3 March 2025.

It is alleged that the trio, while employed at Hillary Company in  Westenburg, outside Polokwane generated fraudulent invoices to order equipment, siphoning off millions for personal gain.

Limpopo Police Spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, confirmed  fraud was discovered and the company reported it to Westenburg Police Station.

Following a thorough investigation, the suspects were identified and arrested in different locations.

Given Victor Mathebula, 31, was apprehended in Tzaneen, while Simnikiwe Ndinisa, 48, was arrested in Seshego. The third suspect, Demala Ndou, 41, voluntarily surrendered to the authorities.

They appeared before the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court on Monday, March 3, 2025, and were each granted bail of R50,000.

The case has been postponed to April 9, 2025, for further police investigations.

Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, praised the investigating team for their dedication, affirming that corruption will not be tolerated. She stated, “Those who dare challenge the authority of the state will be dealt with accordingly.”