The seventh suspect in the Winnie Mandela Museum project has been arrested. The first six people were taken into custody on 20 September.
Jan Harm du Plessis (41) was charged with fraud and theft when he appeared in the Welkom Magistrates’ Court today, 17 October.
He was arrested on Friday, 14 October, at the OR Tambo International Airport by customs control.
A warrant of arrest was issued for him by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team based in Welkom.
It is alleged that during the period of January 2008 until December 2010, money was allocated to the Brandfort Museum project popularly known as the Winnie Mandela Museum by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture. The money that was allocated was allegedly misused and the service providers were appointed without following the proper procurement processes. The project was co-ordinated by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and Lejweleputswa District Municipality.
As a result of these fraudulent activities, the department suffered a total loss of more than R700 000.
The matter was then reported to the Hawks for further investigation.
His co-accused, Tsoareli Malakoane (56), Nontsikelelo Eunice Aaron (55), Lebogang Aubrey Sebeela (47), Monyane Matthews Sefantse (53), Errens Lodewikus Celliers (80) and Sithiwe Thubane (47) were arrested by the Hawks on 20 September and appeared in court on 21 September. Their case was remanded to Friday, 11 November.
Harmse will again appear in court on 20 October for a formal bail application.
