Joint Media Statement
Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (HAWKS) and National Prosecuting Authority  (NPA)

NORTH WEST - Motheo David Diphoko (28), Thapelo Mokgweetsi (30), Keabetswe Mosetsanagape Keantshitse (32), Neo Jeaniffer Tshikare (36), David Paseko Obuseng (41), Dineo Brightness Sebogodi (44) and Seapei Qeen Mogotsi (49), appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, on charges of theft and money laundering.

Four of the accused were arrested on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, and the other three were arrested on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, by members of the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation. In 2022, the accused were employed at a petrol filling station in Mahikeng, when they allegedly manipulated the system and siphoned over R1 million from their employer.

The accused reportedly used an airtime teller machine to convert betting vouchers into cash and transferred it into their bank accounts. As a result, the employer suffered a loss of over R1 million.

Following an investigation, the accused were apprehended and charged with more than 7000 counts of theft and money laundering. They appeared in court and were granted R1000 bail each. Their matter was postponed to 11 September 2025 for further investigation.

The North West acting Hawks Head, Brigadier Georgia Moos and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, have welcomed the arrest and subsequent court appearance of the accused.

Ends

Enquiries:
Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula
071 481 2798;
Sivenathi Gunya (NPA: Communication Officer North West Division)
078 172 9367