Thulamela councillor arrested in R70,000 bribery scandal
A councillor from Thulamela Local Municipality, Netshivhumbe Gumani (44), has been arrested for allegedly attempting to bribe a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigator with R70,000 to interfere with an ongoing corruption investigation involving Mahikeng Local Municipality.
According to the SIU, Gumani allegedly approached several investigators and offered money in exchange for them disregarding evidence linked to a probe into two municipal lease agreements under Proclamation R213 of 2024. The investigation uncovered suspicious financial transactions between a municipal service provider and various unrelated companies and individuals.
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The arrest followed a joint entrapment operation involving the SIU, the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the Hawks. Authorities say Gumani handed over R10,000 in cash to an SIU investigator during a meeting in Mahikeng on 18 June 2026 as part of the proposed bribe, leading to his immediate arrest.
The seized cash was counted and secured in the presence of law enforcement officials.
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Gumani appeared before the Molopo Magistrates’ Court and faces a charge of corruption. The matter was postponed to 29 June 2026 for a bail application.
The SIU said the arrest demonstrates its commitment to integrity and warned that anyone attempting to corrupt investigators will face the full force of the law.
