A sitting ANC councillor from the Thulamela Local Municipality in Limpopo, 44-year-old Netshivhumbe Gumani, has been taken into custody following a failed attempt to bribe a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigator. The arrest occurred during a joint entrapment operation involving the SIU, the South African Police Service, and the Hawks. Gumani now faces serious charges of corruption.
Context of the investigation
The SIU is currently conducting a formal investigation into allegations of maladministration and corruption within the Mahikeng Local Municipality, acting under Proclamation R213 of 2024. Forensic analysis conducted by the SIU uncovered suspicious financial movements involving the municipality's service provider, which appear to have been directed toward unrelated companies and individuals.
The bribery attempt
According to reports, Gumani's attempts to interfere with the investigation began when he approached an SIU investigator, who immediately refused his overtures. Undettered, the councillor then targeted a senior investigator, offering a bribe of R70,000 in exchange for the investigator disregarding evidence and closing the case.
The situation escalated on 18 June 2026, when the suspect met with the investigator in Mahikeng and handed over R10,000 in cash as an initial payment of the promised bribe. Furthermore, it has been noted that the suspect had approached a third SIU official from the head office just last weekend.
Arrest and legal proceedings
Following these interactions, the SIU alerted the police and the Hawks, who successfully coordinated an entrapment operation. Gumani was arrested immediately after passing the cash, which was subsequently seized by law enforcement officers. Following his arrest, the councillor made a court appearance at the Molopo Magistrates' Court in Mahikeng. The proceedings have been postponed until 29 June 2026, at which time he will appear for a formal bail application.
Statement from the SIU
The Special Investigating Unit has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity among its staff. This incident serves as a stern warning that corrupt activities will not be tolerated and that individuals who attempt to compromise the integrity of SIU investigators will face the full extent of the law.