The municipal manager of Blouberg Municipality in Limpopo and two directors of a security company appeared before the Senwabarwana Magistrate’s Court in connection with an alleged fraudulent security services tender worth more than R11 million.
Refilwe Jonas Ramothwala, 57, appeared alongside Sello Herlot Mongalo, 37, and Ngoako Nicolas Thoka, 39, directors of BBT Security Services (Pty) Ltd.
The trio were arrested on September 23, 2026, following an investigation into the awarding and implementation of a security services tender by the municipality.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson Mashudu Malabi said the municipality awarded the tender to BBT Security Services in March 2023 after the company allegedly submitted fraudulent tender documents.
Malabi said the company allegedly failed to meet key technical requirements contained in the tender specifications, including requirements relating to the ownership of firearms needed to provide the contracted security services.
Despite the alleged non-compliance, BBT Security Services continued providing security services to the municipality and received payments over a period of about three years.
The NPA said the payments amounted to more than R11 million.
The three accused collectively face 73 charges, including theft, fraud and money laundering.
Meanwhile, Ramothwala faces an additional charge relating to the alleged contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003.
The municipal manager also has a separate pending fraud matter before the Hoedspruit Regional Court. The trial in that matter is scheduled to proceed on October 16, 2026.
The charges against BBT Security Services and its two directors relate to the alleged irregular awarding and implementation of the municipal security tender.
The accused did not apply for bail during their initial appearance. The matter was postponed to October 1, 2026, for a formal bail application.
The NPA said it remained committed to ensuring accountability in cases involving fraud, corruption and the alleged misuse of public funds.
It said it would continue prosecuting such matters without fear, favour or prejudice.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
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