By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has explained how actress Terry Pheto has been implicated in the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) property fraud.
Pheto posted a tweet at the weekend, stating she was shocked to learn about the SIU probe.
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago explains how Pheto is implicated.
Kganyago said investigators approached the TV star two months ago and informed her of the investigation surrounding the property she lived in, and how it was acquired.”
“Her name come into the fold when we were tracing the money and we ended up in this property that is owned by her and that is why her name is attached to this because we were tracing the money that was supposed to have gone to an NPO, to other people, and ended up being used to buy the property that she owns.”
On Friday, the North Gauteng High Court granted the National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit a preservation order to seize nine luxury houses, cars and two Ocean Basket franchises.
These assets were owned by individuals linked to financial mismanagement and corruption at the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).
Among those implicated are Pheto, lawyer Lesley Ramulifho, Collin Mukondeleli Tshisimba, Fulufhelo Promise Kharivhe, AO Residence Trust represented by Mashudu Shandukani, Rasemate Family Trust represented by Rebotile Malomane, Mojakgomo Family Trust represented Thabang Charlotte Mampane (ex-lotteries boss), Unbrand properties represented by Sthembiso Jim Skosana, and Just Cuban Trust represented by Botshelo Cornelius Moloto.
Meanwhile, the SIU said it had secured four preservation orders so far this year relating to the alleged fraud and corruption at the National Lotteries Commission, including the latest order that was secured on Friday.