The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed the Polokwane Magistrates' Court's decision to deny bail to attorney Charlotte Tibana (33) and Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) official Peter Nonyane (36). The two face 43 charges, including theft, fraud (alternatively theft), and money laundering.

Bail successfully opposed

The State successfully opposed bail, arguing that the investigation is ongoing and that releasing the accused risked interference with witnesses and police officials. The investigating officer is in possession of voice recordings allegedly showing that Tibana continued contacting complainants while in custody. The State further submitted that Tibana owns several properties, some of which were registered in the name of her younger sibling, Rihandzu Tibana, in an apparent attempt to conceal the proceeds of alleged criminal activities.

Background to the charges

The charges arise from the administration of deceased estates in which Tibana had been appointed as executor. According to the State, despite being under investigation as early as 2024, Tibana continued to commit further offences, including some allegedly committed as recently as July 2026.

The NPA informed the court that Tibana previously worked at the Master's Office, where she practised as an attorney, and was therefore familiar with the processes and responsibilities associated with the administration of  deceased estates.

Arrests and alleged misappropriation of funds

Nonyane was arrested in Pretoria on 14 August 2026, while Tibana was arrested in Polokwane on 17 August 2026. Their arrests followed an extensive investigation into the alleged unlawful withdrawal and laundering of funds from two deceased estates. The State alleges that approximately R6 million was withdrawn from bank accounts belonging to different deceased estates after the nature, source, location, disposition, and movement of the funds were unlawfully concealed or disguised.

Of this amount, approximately R1.65 million was allegedly used to purchase a used Mercedes-Benz AMG G63 from a dealership in Pretoria. The State further alleges that Nonyane used part of the proceeds to make stokvel contributions and to build a residential property. In a separate estate valued at R4 246 762.04, the NPA alleges that only R1 470 000 was paid to the deceased's children, with  the remainder of the funds allegedly misappropriated.

Court's decision

In opposing bail, the NPA submitted that the seriousness of the charges, the strength of the State's case, the ongoing investigation, and allegations of witness interference weighed heavily against the release of the accused. The court agreed with the State's submissions and denied both accused bail. The matter was postponed to 6 November 2026 for further investigations. Both accused remain in custody.

NPA's commitment

The NPA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability in matters involving fraud, corruption, theft, and money laundering. These offences undermine public confidence in legal and public institutions and often deprive rightful beneficiaries of assets intended for their benefit. The successful opposition to bail underscores the NPA's commitment to protecting the integrity of investigations and ensuring that those accused of serious financial crimes are brought before the courts to answer the charges against them.