The independent public integrity and anti-corruption authority for a corruption-free South Africa.

Thulamela councillor arrested after offering SIU investigator R70,000 bribe in joint SAPS and Hawks operation for Mahikeng investigation

A sitting councillor from Thulamela Local Municipality in Limpopo, Netshivhumbe Gumani (44), has been arrested after attempting to bribe a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigator with R70,000 to obstruct justice in the Mahikeng Local Municipality, North West, investigation. He is facing charges of corruption.

The arrest was effected in a joint entrapment operation by the SIU and members of the South African Police Service, namely the Mmabatho-based Serious Corruption Investigation, Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, and the Mahikeng Tactical Response Team from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.

The SIU is investigating allegations of maladministration and corruption under Proclamation R213 of 2024, focusing on the procurement or contracting for goods and services related to two tenders by or on behalf of the Mahikeng Local Municipality:

  • Lease Agreement SCM/MLM17(A)/12/2015 dated 15 December 2015
  • Full Maintenance Lease Agreement SCM/MLM17(B)/12/2015 dated 23 February 2016

The SIU’s forensic analysis revealed suspicious financial flows from the municipality’s service provider to unrelated companies and individuals.

During the investigation, Gumani first approached one SIU investigator, who refused outright. He then targeted a senior investigator, offering R70,000 to “close one eye” and disregard evidence. On 18 June 2026, during a meeting in Mahikeng, the suspect handed over R10,000 in cash as part of the bribe.

Gumani also approached a third SIU official from the SIU’s Head Office last weekend.

The SIU had alerted SAPS and the Hawks, who authorised an entrapment operation. The suspect was arrested immediately after handing over the cash, and the money was seized and counted in the presence of law enforcement officers.

Councillor Gumani appeared in the Molopo Magistrates’ Court in Mahikeng, and his case has been
postponed to 29 June 2026 for a bail application.

The SIU emphasises that its investigators uphold the highest standards of integrity. This case sends a strong deterrent message: corruption will not be tolerated, and those who attempt to corrupt SIU investigators will face the full might of the law.

Enquiries:
Selby Makgotho
Spokesperson: Special Investigating Unit
Cell: 083 718 6128
SIUMedia@siu.org.za

North West Attempted Bribe_June 2026Download