Former Department of Education assistant director, Mbhazima David Mabasa has been sentenced to four years’ imprisonment with an option of a R160 000 fine, half of which is suspended for five years by Polokwane Magistrate’s Court yesterday (Thursday).
According to Limpopo Hawks spokesperson Matimba Maluleke, Mabasa was arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Investigation Unit in May last year after he demanded R4 400 from a University of Venda student, who had applied for a bursary. It was reported that Mabasa demanded the money to approve the application.
Maluleke stated in a media release that Mabasa was granted R1 000 bail and subsequently made a series of court appearances, which culminated in the recent conviction and sentence. Department of Education spokesperson Sam Makondo emphasised that the department was against fraud and corruption practices and reiterated that anyone found engaging in such activities will face the law.
Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
