BY REGINALD KANYANE
A former police officer and accounting clerk were found guilty of fraud and theft. Captain Santa Pakalitha, 31, and Hillary Arries, 36 appeared in De Aar Regional Court on Monday.
The Hawks spokesperson, Captain Philani Nkwalase said the accused were both working for the South African Police Service (SAPS) and stationed at Colesburg finance office before their dismissal.
“They were charged for 118 incidents of fraud and theft combined, worth a total of over R293 000. Investigation revealed that false application requesting cash advances and claim were made. These claims varied from meals, accommodation costs as well as renewal of license disks. Personal particulars of fellow colleagues were used including senior management at the station,” Nkwalase said.
According to Nkwalase, they were arrested in August 2010 for defrauding the SAPS from November 2009 until July 2010. He said these irregularities were uncovered when a senior manager found that there was a pending claim R131 000 on her name.
“She knew nothing about that and Arries had since repaid R131 000 to the State. They were both sentenced to 5 years imprisonment. They were also suspended for 5 years on condition that they do not commit similar offences. They were additionally placed under correctional supervision and community service both for a period of 2 years,” Nkwalase said.
-TDN
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