By OBAKENG MAJE
27 April 2026 – It is alleged that the owner of a construction company was lured to Mmabatho in the North West with promises of securing a tender to install solar geysers. The complainant reportedly met with the suspects, who allegedly posed as officials from a tender committee and the Department of Public Works.
The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said during the meeting, they demanded undue gratification from the complainant in exchange for securing the tender. Morake said the complainant made payments into the suspects’ bank accounts, but later became suspicious and reported the matter to the North West Provincial Commercial Crime Investigation Unit.
“On 23 April 2026, three suspects were traced and arrested in Potchefstroom, Wolmaransstad, Mahikeng and Mmabatho. Dingaan David Seabe (57), who is also a well-known pastor in Mahikeng, Ernest Thabang Phillips (47), and Wakgale Johannes Mosiane (39) have been charged with tender fraud and appeared before the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on 24 April 2026.
“The accused were remanded in custody until 30 April 2026, for a formal bail application. Anyone who can assist the police with information regarding this investigation is requested to contact the investigating officer, Colonel Thebeyagae Molatlhegi on 071 481 2432,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the members for swiftly arresting the trio. Naidoo further urged members of the public and business community to exercise extreme caution when approached with promises of securing tenders, especially where upfront payments or “facilitation fees” are requested. “Legitimate government tender processes are transparent, regulated, and do not require any form of undue gratification to secure contracts. Individuals should verify the authenticity of officials, confirm tender advertisements through official government platforms and avoid making payments into personal bank accounts.
“Reporting suspicious activities promptly to law enforcement can prevent financial loss and assist in bringing perpetrators to justice,” he said.
The Guardian 