Former Agency Officers Arrested For R5.8 Million Fraud And Money Laundering

Two former senior officers of the State Security Agency (SSA), Ntshavheni Prince Makhathana and Matome Solomon Ralebipi, have been arrested for the misappropriation of approximately R5.8 million in state funds and involvement in money laundering.

The arrested culprits were made by the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) on Monday.

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The accused made their first appearance after being arrested,  in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, where the matter was postponed to June 23, 2025, for pretrial proceedings.

Details Of Alleged Misappropriation And Money Laundering Scheme

The arrested duo, Ntshavheni Makhathana, a former manager of the Cover Support Unit (CSU) within the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and his co-accused, Ralebipi, face serious charges related to theft for personal gain.

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Between 2007 and 2010, Makhathana was responsible for managing NIA’s operations and financial expenditures.

The duo allegedly misappropriated R5.8 million in state funds meant for NIA operations, which led to the arrest.

The funds were allegedly funneled through Ralebipi Properties CC, a business established to conceal the illicit origins of the stolen money.

In addition to theft, the accused face charges of fraud, forgery, uttering, and perjury, with the aim of covering up the unlawful misappropriation of state funds.

Ralebipi is accused of obtaining a High Court ruling that allowed the properties purchased with the stolen funds to be registered in the name of Ralebipi Properties CC, where he is the sole member.

Bail Conditions

During court appearance, Makhathana was granted R100,000 bail, while Ralebipi was granted R150,000 bail.

Both suspects are required to surrender their travel documents, refrain from contacting state witnesses, and report to their local police stations every Friday.

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The officer after they were arrested and charged in court, are also prohibited from disposing of their assets and leaving their residences, except for legal consultations and medical appointments.

SSA’s History Of Corruption

The SSA has a history of corruption and mismanagement.

In 2018, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed a review panel to assess the SSA’s structure and operations. The panel’s 2019 report revealed widespread abuse, including the use of the agency for political purposes.

It also uncovered systemic failures, many of which were exploited by officials like Makhathana and Ralebipi for personal gain.

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