By STAFF REPORTER
29 September 2026 – Three additional accused have been joined in an alleged R11 million deceased estates fraud and money laundering case involving the administration of 15 deceased estates in Limpopo.
Rirzhaku Tibana (30), Jabulani Nephtal Maluleke (43) and Risima Jeje Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd appeared briefly before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court, where they were joined as co-accused with Charlotte Tibana and Peter Nonyane Gagashe.
The five accused are collectively facing 101 charges, including fraud, theft and money laundering.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the charges stem from allegations that approximately R11 million was unlawfully withdrawn and laundered from estate accounts belonging to various deceased persons. The State alleges that Charlotte Tibana, who was appointed as executor of 15 deceased estates, registered some of her properties in the name of her younger sibling, Rirzhaku Tibana, to conceal the proceeds of alleged criminal activities.
She is also accused of transferring funds into the business account of Risima Jeje Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Limpopo, Mashudu Malabi said the investigation revealed allegations of continued criminal activity despite the accused being aware of the investigation.
“The State alleges that despite becoming aware as early as 2024 that she was under investigation, Charlotte Tibana continued to commit further offences, including some allegedly committed as recently as July 2026,” said Malabi.
The accused were arrested between 14 August 2026 and 27 September 2026 following an extensive investigation into the alleged unlawful withdrawal and laundering of funds from deceased estates. The State further alleges that approximately R1.65 million of the proceeds was used to purchase a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz AMG G63 from a dealership in Pretoria.
Peter Nonyane Gagashe is also alleged to have used part of the proceeds to make stokvel contributions and construct a residential property.
In a separate estate matter valued at R4 245 762.04, the State alleges that only R1.47 million was paid to the deceased’s children, while the remaining funds were unlawfully misappropriated.
It is further alleged that Charlotte Tibana and one of the accused used the business account of Risima Jeje Trading Enterprise to launder the proceeds.
The matter was postponed to 2 October 2026 for a bail application. All the accused remain in custody.
