By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The case of Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) officer Peter Nonyane (36) and his partner, attorney Charlotte Tibana, 33, has been rolled over to Tuesday.
Nonyane, 36, Tibana, 33, appeared in the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court on August 24 for a bail application over fraud, theft and money laundering involving about R1.75 million.
They are facing charges of fraud, theft and money laundering involving approximately R1.75 million linked to a deceased estate.
Hawks investigating Officer, Constable Khutšišo Thobejane is opposing bail, arguing that Tibana could interfere with the investigation if released even though she lives in Bendor, Polokwane, while her husband is based in Pretoria.
Thobejane also raised concerns about being able to locate Tibana, who eventually handed herself over to police last Monday after police unsuccessfully hunted her throughout the weekend.
He further testified that the accused have a history of international travel and do not own fixed property, increasing the likelihood that they could flee the country to evade trial.
“The accused do not have any fixed properties that would prevent them from leaving the country. Both their passports show that they have travelled abroad on several occasions,” he said.
He also told the court that Tibane used some of the proceeds of the crime to purchase two vehicles, which were later registered in the name of her unemployed sister, Rirandzu Tibane.
He also questioned the couple’s financial standing, particularly Nonyane’s ability to sustain his lifestyle.
Thobejane testified that Nonyane’s take-home salary is R11,000, but drives a Mercedes-Benz V-Class with monthly repayments estimated at R42,000.
He argued that the vehicle payments are likely being covered by Tibane, as Nonyane’s salary would not be sufficient.
The court also heard that the couple owns homes in Giyani and maintains residences in both Gauteng and Polokwane.
Defence lawyer, Advocate Hlawulani Maluleke, raised concerns about repeated delays in the commencement of the bail proceedings.
Maluleke told the court that the delays were affecting the accused persons’ ability to properly deal with their bail applications.
The matter has been postponed to Tuesday, when the State is expected to call two additional witnesses. The accused remain in custody.