By REGINALD KANYANE
12 August 2026 – Barend Botha (69), who is an attorney, appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 11 August 2026, facing charges of theft. Botha was arrested on 11 August 2026, by members of the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for allegedly stealing his deceased client’s estate.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said it is alleged that in June 2016, Botha de Wet and Roodt Law Firm was appointed to assist with the estate of their deceased client. Mathebula said over R130 000 was reportedly transferred from the deceased’s bank account into the trust account of the law firm.
“Investigation revealed that Botha did not transfer the money to the beneficiary. Following an investigation, Botha was apprehended and charged with theft. He appeared in court and was granted R5000 bail.
“His matter was postponed to 30 September 2026 for an appearance at the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Klerksdorp,” he said.
The Guardian 