The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS) has confirmed that a 57-year-old General Manager of the Premier Soccer League (PSL)—a former international referee—and his 47-year-old wife are set to appear before the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 5 May 2025, to face serious charges of fraud and money laundering.
Alleged Misuse of PetroSA School Infrastructure Funds
The charges stem from a multi-million rand scheme involving PetroSA and a fictitious infrastructure project in the Eastern Cape.
According to investigators, the accused:
- Misrepresented that Gangatha Junior Secondary School (JSS) required urgent infrastructure development.
- Submitted forged trust deeds and donor documentation, falsely presenting Gangatha Projects—an unregistered entity—as a legitimate school development partner.
- Induced PetroSA to deposit R13 million into a bank account controlled by the suspects under the name Gangatha Projects.
- Laundered the funds into personal bank accounts, disguising the origins through forged documentation and fictitious entities.
Further investigation revealed that:
- The trust deed linked to “King’s Gangatha Building Trust” was never registered, and the supporting signatures were falsified.
- The entity used for the project did not legally exist and was operated solely by the couple.
Hawks Commended for Investigative Breakthrough
The Hawks have been commended for their diligence in uncovering the fraud. Authorities say the case underscores the importance of due diligence in funding allocations, especially in initiatives aimed at supporting disadvantaged communities.
“This kind of fraudulent activity not only diverts much-needed resources but also undermines public trust in development projects aimed at improving education and infrastructure,” said a Hawks spokesperson.
The couple is expected to face multiple charges of fraud and money laundering. Proceedings are underway in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court.