BLOUBERG MUNICIPAL MANAGER AND TWO COMPANY DIRECTORS APPEAR IN COURT OVER ALLEGED R11 MILLION SECURITY TENDER FRAUD

The Municipal Manager of Blouberg Local Municipality, Refilwe Jonas Ramothwala (57), together with Sello Herlot Mongalo (37) and Ngoako Nicolas Thoka (39), directors of BBT Security Services (Pty) Ltd, appeared before the Senwabarwana Magistrate's Court following their arrest on 23 September 2026 in connection with an alleged fraudulent security services tender.

It is alleged that in March 2023, Blouberg Local Municipality awarded a security services tender to BBT Security Services (Pty) Ltd after the company submitted fraudulent tender documents. The company allegedly failed to meet key technical requirements stipulated in the tender specifications, including the ownership of firearms required to render the contracted services.

Despite the alleged non-compliance, BBT Security Services continued to provide services and received payments from the municipality over a period of three years, amounting to more than R11 million.

The accused are collectively facing 73 charges, including theft, fraud, and money laundering.

Ramothwala faces an additional charge relating to the alleged contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003. He also has a pending fraud matter before the Hoedspruit Regional Court, with the trial scheduled to proceed on 16 October 2026.

BBT Security Services (Pty) Ltd and its two directors are charged with theft, fraud, and money laundering arising from the alleged irregular award and implementation of the tender.

The matter was postponed to 01 October 2026 for a formal bail application.

The National Prosecuting Authority remains committed to ensuring accountability in matters involving fraud, corruption, and the misuse of public funds, and will continue to prosecute such matters without fear, favour, or prejudice.

Issued by:

Mashudu Malabi

Regional Spokesperson Limpopo Division

National Prosecuting Authority