Arrest warrants issued for two accused in R114m Mpumalanga education tender fraud

2026-03-27 - 04:20

A warrant of arrest has been issued for two of the accused in the R114 million Mpumalanga Department of Education schools tender fraud scandal, who failed to appear in court. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, confirmed on Thursday that 38 out of 40 of the accused appeared before the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court. Charges The accused included senior government officials, service providers, and individuals. They face several charges, including corruption, fraud, theft, money laundering, and contraventions of the Public Finance Management Act. (PFMA). ALSO READ: MK party MP and municipal manager arrested in R1.6m tender fraud Warrant Hawks Mpumalanga spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi said two accused, Consolation Mdluli and Brigitt Mthalana, were a no-show in court. “Their legal representatives cited medical reasons for their absence. The court authorised warrants of arrest for both individuals, which were conditionally withheld. Ms Mthalana is required to appear before court on 10 April 2026, while Ms Mdluli is expected to appear on 02 July 2026. Failure to comply may result in the execution of the warrants and possible bail forfeiture.” Nkosi said the group were previously granted bail ranging from R5 000 to R50 000 during court appearances held between 23 and 27 February 2026. “In a related matter, Ms Ruth Khoza has been instructed to appoint private legal representation after being deemed ineligible for Legal Aid due to her financial status. The case has been postponed to 02 July 2026 for docket and charge sheet disclosure. All accused are expected to appear in person.” Tenders According to the Hawks, the accused allegedly manipulated tender processes, delivered substandard services, or received payments for services not rendered. The funds were reportedly funnelled through various accounts to government officials. The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, Major General Nico Gerber, welcomed the progress, stating that the investigation remains “focused on ensuring accountability” and combating corruption within public institutions. Last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate serious maladministration at the Mpumalanga education department in connection with six tenders. Laptop fraud The province’s education department was recently rocked by a tablet scandal, in which a R224 million tender was awarded for tablets and laptops for Grade 12 learners. Some of these devices were allegedly faulty and a waste of money. The department denied the claims of wastage and any wrongdoing in awarding the tender. ALSO READ: Wasteful expenditure? This is what a R91 000 laptop gets you [VIDEO]