R113 million siphoned from National Health Laboratory Services

PRETORIA – Four suspects appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrate Court on Tuesday following allegations of fraud and theft at the National Health Laboratory Services.

Members of the Hawks have uncovered theft amounting to millions and arrested four suspects including one who was charged whilst in custody for another matter in a two-year-long investigation.

The suspects Mthenjana (41), Graham Motsepe (42), Pierre Petersen (44) and Mthunzi Mthikhulu (50) years old are alleged to have flaunted supply chain processes in awarding an R25 million tender to an internet and surveillance company.

A letter was written by Motsepe, the former Supply Chain manager was unlawfully submitted to the company as confirmation of the award of the tender. The said letter which was drafted with the assistance of Mthenjane, the former Legal manager was utilized by Petersen to defraud a further R76 million from unsuspecting victims.

The trio submitted fraudulent cession agreements on behalf of their employer the National Health Laboratory Services to other victims as well.

Motsepe together with Mthenjane were granted bail of R20 000 each whilst Mthimkhulu was denied bail.

Petersen was also denied bail as he is in custody for another matter.

They will appear again in the same court on 15 March 2020.