A scammer who promised community members of Bethlehem RDP houses, was found guilty of fraud.
Zithobile Hezeckiel Tshabalala (46) was found guilty and sentenced by the Bethlehem Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (15/06).
Tshabalala was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months.
The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit based in Bethlehem worked ceaselessly to ensure that justice in this matter, was served.
The convicted fraudster was first arrested in July 2019 after information had been received about a man masquerading as a local councillor and promising residents RDP houses at a cost of R5 000.
He was later released on bail, only to flout set conditions by failing to present himself before court.
As a result, he was rearrested in 2022 and jailed until his sentencing.
Maj. Gen. Mokgadi Bokaba, Free State head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), has reminded citizens about their patriotic responsibility to report crime.
“We must not fuel corruption and other crimes by participating in the commission thereof.
“Instead, we must approach authorities and report crime. Do not be afraid to blow the whistle on crime,” she urged.
