The Guardian

DARD employee allegedly nabbed for corruption

April 1, 2026 6:36 pm

By STAFF REPORTER

1 April 2026 – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said it has noted recent social media posts regarding the arrest of one of its employees, Seabelo Lebitse (43) and his subsequent appearance before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 31 March 2026, in connection with allegations of soliciting money from a service provider. The department said it wishes to assure the public, stakeholders, and employees that it remains firmly committed to the principles of integrity, accountability, transparency and good governance.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said a significant milestone has been reached as an internal investigation process was carried out and subsequently escalated to the appropriate authorities for further investigation. Setlhako said in addition, the department has activated its internal disciplinary processes in line with established protocols.

“The department emphasizes its zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption. It calls upon all stakeholders, employees, and members of the public to report any suspicious or unethical conduct through official reporting channels.

“At the same time, the department urges all parties to exercise restraint in circulating unverified information, as investigations remain ongoing. The dissemination of unsubstantiated claims has the potential to compromise the integrity of both the investigative process and judicial proceedings,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel, Tinyiko Mathebula said: “Lebitse is facing three counts of corruption. He was arrested on 31 March 2026, by the Klerksdorp-based Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation following allegations of having solicited gratification from a service provider.

“In October 2020, the accused allegedly approached a service provider, who had submitted documents to bid for a tender at the North West Department of Agriculture. Lebitse reportedly told the service provider that he would assist in facilitating the awarding of a tender on condition that he takes care of him.”

He said investigation revealed that the service provider paid Lebitse R10 000 for the purchase of his vehicle’s tyres. Mathebula said it was further established that the accused was paid R2000 and a further R1000 by the service provider on different occasions.

“The service provider subsequently entered into a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the department for the construction of a tunnel and installation of fishponds.

“Following an investigation, the accused was apprehended and charged with three counts of corruption. He appeared in court and was granted R5000 bail. His matter was postponed to 7 May 2026, for first appearance at the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Klerksdorp,” he said.

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