By OBAKENG MAJE

Three accused, Olebogeng Modikoe (39) Thulare Joseph Radise (40) and Kabelo Patrice Mosuwe (40), briefly appeared before Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 25 March 2024, on charges of fraud and money laundering.

It is alleged that, between December 2020 and January 2021, Modikoe, who is employed by the North West Department of Education as a Principal Human Resource Officer, created and hired two ghost employees on a contract basis for the period of three months. The said employees were remunerated a total amount of R150 092 87.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Amogelang Malwetse said, the investigation by the Klerksdorp based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation revealed that, the monies were deposited into Mosuwe and Radise’s bank accounts.

Malwetse said on 23 March 2024, the trio was arrested by the Hawks during a sting operation conducted at Rustenburg and Midrand respectively.

“They appeared before court and were each granted R5000 bail. Their case was postponed until 11 June 2024,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com