Shimane Petrus Mthini (42), the director of Mthini Attorneys, appeared in the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court earlier on Tuesday (22/7), following his arrest by the Hawks, South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, on the same day. He was released on R15,000 bail, and his case was postponed to 4 September.

According to reports, Mthini is accused of borrowing R300,000 from a RAF claimant under the pretence of using the money to pay another claimant. The attorney allegedly promised to repay the loan once the RAF had settled his client’s claim. However, investigations revealed a disturbing pattern of deceit, said North West Hawks spokesperson, Tinyiko Mathebula.

It is understood that in total, Mthini received over R800,000 from the RAF concerning various claims, yet failed to reimburse his client or repay the R300,000 loan. Instead of honouring his financial obligations, he allegedly exploited his professional position to defraud his clients of significant sums of money.

The fraud allegations came to light after an extensive investigation conducted by the Hawks. Their investigations uncovered that Mthini had misled the complainant into believing the RAF payment would be made on time, while at the same time, he was failing to settle his debts or distribute the money as promised. As a result, Mthini was arrested and charged with two counts of fraud.

Brig. Silas Munzhedzi, the North West Hawks’ acting head, and Dr Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, have applauded those who worked on the case. 

They have cautioned legal practitioners who are defrauding unsuspecting victims that the NPA and Hawks will stop at nothing to ensure that victims get justice.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg