HAWKS OFFICIALS APPEAR IN COURT FOR THEFT AND CORRUPTION
Johannesburg – Three police officials attached to the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit in Gauteng, a Gauteng Highway Patrol officer, and two civilians have appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court on charges of theft and corruption.
The accused are Captain Letlhogonolo Andrew Molatlhegi (59), Warrant Officer Mabutho Masina (46), Constable Mpho Irvyn Netshivhera (30), Constable Nhlamulo Matsilela (30), Simon Mapusi Rakuba (47), and Lebogang Tseto (41). They were arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team following a detailed probe.
Their arrest stems from a complaint lodged by a shop owner at Dragon City, who alleged that during a police operation at his store, a large sum of money was unlawfully seized. The complaint details that the store was already closed and the employees arrested by the time the owner arrived at the scene, having been alerted to the police presence by one of his staff members.
The Hawks traced the implicated officers to Newtown, where they were allegedly found in possession of a significant amount of unregistered cash. This discovery led to their immediate arrest along with two alleged civilian accomplices.
The matter has been postponed to 04 July 2025 for a formal bail application.
The NPA remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all individuals, especially those entrusted with enforcing the law are held accountable through a fair and transparent process.
