The National Prosecuting Authority's (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame, says the trial date for the trio has now been set for 11 October 2021. 

The trio, Khumalo, Cecil Henry and Mohau Shuping, who face eight charges of theft of R5 million, will stand trial at the Ventersdorp Regional Court. 

Mamothame says it is alleged that the North West University and the Programme for Community Development paid about R5 million into a trust account of an attorney for the use of specific projects by the municipality. 

He adds that, amongst others, during the theft of R5 million, it was discovered that R200 000 was paid directly into the account of one of the accused and from this amount, R64 218 was paid to an institution where Khumalo’s relative was a student. 

"It is alleged that false invoices were generated to effect more fictitious payments. Further to this act of criminality, Khumalo allegedly instructed the attorney to make payment to an NGO which did not exist. At some point the attorney was then given instructions to effect various payments, including a R208 000 mayoral committee contribution towards the funeral of the late MEC for Agriculture, Duma Ndleleni, who passed away on 23 November 2018," he adds.

The state initially intended to transfer the matter to the High Court in Mmabatho, however, the accused made a submission citing they will suffer financial constraints.

"During a pre-trial hearing held today, 20 August 2021, all parties confirmed their readiness to proceed with the trial and the state confirmed that investigations are concluded on this matter.  The three will remain out on a warning and are prohibited from contacting state witnesses," Mamothame further adds.

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