Three accused, Zenzele Jacob Mncwane,Grace Mokola and Skhumbuzo Nkosi appeared before Nelspruit Regional Court on Monday facing charges of fraud and money laundering.
In 2012 the community of Endlovini Farm requested money from the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform to maintain their farm and were assisted by an experienced farmer who was appointed to mentor them. The community members were informed that the money was approved, but they did not receive it.
The community reported the matter to the Department and a case was opened. Investigations revealed that the appointed mentor, together with his employees of the department had transferred the money into their personal accounts.
Five suspects were arrested in 2012 and the case against one suspect, Ntokozo Nkosi was withdrawn while the second suspect, Thandi Mildred Mndawe was sentenced in 2014 for money laundering. She was fined R30 000,00 or four months imprisonment.
She was further ordered to compensate the complainants, Endlovini Communal Property Association an amount of R10.000,00 and her vehicle was also confiscated. The case is postponed to October 26, 2017 for a defence case.
