Municipal official nabbed for fraud

An official at Sol Plaatje municipality who was allegedly involved in fraudulent acts valued at R2.2 million has been granted bail by the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court, police said in a statement yesterday.

Police spokesperson, Captain Philani Nkwalase, said Theodor Robert Williams, 48, was granted bail of R2 500.

Williams, who is employed as a technical assistant working under the control building structure department, was arrested by the Hawks on Wednesday.

“Williams was arrested for fraudulent activities that involved about 10 victims who allegedly approached the Sol Plaatje Municipality and made payments for both approval and drawing of new house plans or redrawing of plans for existing buildings.”

Nkwalase said different amounts were allegedly paid for the processes, but no services were rendered.

“Further investigation revealed that the suspect had a previous three-years theft conviction prior to his appointment at the municipality. This was allegedly not disclosed at his appointment in January, 2008.”

The estimated value of the fraudulent acts, combined with the salary gained during the period of his employment, exceeded R2.2 million, Nkwalase said.

The matter was postponed to February 24. – ANA