The Polokwane Magistrate’s Court continued hearing the bail application of Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department officer Peter Nonyane and his wife, attorney Charlotte Tibana, on 24 August 2026, with investigating officer Constable Phuthisho Thobejane expected back on the witness stand. The State is opposing bail for the couple, who face charges of fraud, theft, and money laundering linked to deceased estates.
According to SABC News, which has been covering the proceedings, Thobejane was due to continue testifying when the hearing resumed on Tuesday. The broadcaster reported that Nonyane and Tibana pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.
SAPS confirmed in a post dated 17 August 2026 that Nonyane and Tibana appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court in connection with an alleged fraud, theft, and money laundering case involving approximately R1.75 million from a deceased estate. The police service said the matter was postponed to 21 August 2026 for a formal bail application and further investigation.
TimesLIVE reported that the pair were arrested in connection with the alleged unlawful withdrawal and laundering of funds from deceased estate bank accounts. The outlet identified Nonyane by the alias “Gagash” or “Greater Gagash Municipality.”
The total amount allegedly defrauded remains in dispute across reports. SABC cited more than R4 million taken from three deceased estates between 2024 and 2026, while SAPS and TimesLIVE referenced approximately R1.75 million. The discrepancy has not been clarified by a court document or direct prosecutor statement, and the figures may refer to different counts or updated allegations.
Deceased estate fraud has drawn growing scrutiny in South Africa, where concerns about the misuse of deceased persons’ bank accounts and property have prompted calls for tighter oversight of estate administration. Cases involving law enforcement officers and legal professionals accused of exploiting such systems carry particular weight for public confidence in both institutions.
The allegations against Nonyane and Tibana remain untested in court. No finding of guilt has been made, and the couple is presumed innocent unless proven otherwise.
It remains unknown when the bail application will conclude or whether further charges will be added. Cape Flats will next check for updates on the proceedings on 25 August 2026.