South African lawyer and police officer face fraud charges

Lawyer Charlotte Tibana and her husband, Tshwane Metro Police officer Peter “Gagash” Nonyane, are facing bail applications in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court following allegations of fraud and money laundering. The National Prosecuting Authority claims the couple unlawfully transferred more than R4-million from the trust accounts of three deceased estates.

Investigating officer Colonel Daniel Makuwa testified that Tibana allegedly transferred approximately R1.7-million from the Mathabatha family estate to a car dealership in Pretoria. Tibana reportedly claimed the transfer was a mistake caused by managing multiple accounts.

Prosecutors are opposing bail, citing concerns that the accused could intimidate witnesses or that their lives might be in danger due to public anger over the alleged theft of funds used for luxury items. Additionally, investigators noted claims that Tibana threatened suicide during previous interactions.