Municipal cheat is tricked

TEN victims cheated by a municipal official have got their revenge – they banded together with the Hawks to stop his fraudulent behaviour. Now it’s emerged he even has a previous criminal record.

The Hawks have arrested the man‚ a technical assistant working under the Control Building Structure Department at Sol Plaatje municipality in the Northern Cape.

“The 48-year-old suspect was arrested in connection with fraudulent activities that emanated when several victims allegedly approached the Sol Plaatje municipality and made payments for both approval and drawing of new house plans or redraw plans for existing building‚” Captain Philani Nkwalase explained.

“Different amounts were allegedly paid to the person believed to be responsible for the processes but no services rendered in terms of drawing and approval of the house plans.”

The Hawks investigation showed that this had been going on from 2011 until 2016.

Ten victims who were subjected to this fraudulent activity came forward with information that ultimately led to the arrest‚ the captain said.

“Further investigation revealed that the suspect had a previous three years theft conviction prior to his appointment at the municipality. This incident was allegedly not disclosed during his appointment in January 2008 and this has now formed part of Hawks’ investigation as it could have influenced his appointment.”

The Hawks estimated the value of his fraudulent acts combined with the salary gained during the period of his employment as in excess of R2.2-million. — TMG