Picture: Former Taung Agricultural College principal, Motlagomang Prudence Matlhoko
By OBAKENG MAJE
22 January 2025- Former Taung Agricultural College principal, Motlagomang Prudence Matlhoko (43), found guilty of fraud by the Taung Regional Court. Matlhoko was facing two counts of fraud after she submitted fraudulent travel claims between October and December 2017, while she was still employed at the college.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said investigation by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation Unit revealed that Matlhoko submitted claims for a vehicle that was at the garage for repairs. Gunya said it was further established that she utilised an official vehicle for the two trips she submitted claims for.
“The accused was paid over R17 000 for the claims submitted. Following an investigation, Matlhoko was arrested in March 2020, and released on warning. She made several court appearances until she was found guilty on two counts of fraud and sentenced to 4 years imprisonment or to pay R12 000.
“Half of the fine which is suspended for five years on condition that the accused is not convicted of fraud during the period of suspension,” he said.
Meanwhile, the North West acting Hawks Head, Brigadier Silas Munzhedzi, and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, have welcomed the sentencing and lauded those who worked on the case.
The Guardian 