- R144 million worth of land was forfeited following fraud and corruption, with four preservation orders obtained.
- Land earmarked for housing, schools, and community amenities has been returned to the Mahikeng Local Municipality.
- The NPA confirms that steps are underway to reinstate the related criminal case.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit has secured the forfeiture of land valued at R144 million that was unlawfully stripped from the Mahikeng Local Municipality through fraud and corruption.
A final forfeiture order was granted on 31 October 2024, the culmination of a lengthy legal process during which four preservation orders were obtained. With that order, the property formally vested in the state.
Land returned, and a criminal case to follow
On Wednesday, 18 March 2026, National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Andy Mothibi formally handed the land back to the Mahikeng Local Municipality. Before it was unlawfully taken, the land had been set aside for low-cost housing, public schools, and community amenities, a vision that can now be realised.
Mothibi did not mince his words: “We want this occasion to serve as a warning to those who seek to enrich themselves through corruption and the abuse of public trust. Illicitly acquired assets will not be enjoyed in peace. They will be pursued. They will be preserved. They will be forfeited.”
The NPA confirmed that work is underway to reinstate the criminal case linked to the unlawful acquisition, making clear that the return of the land is not the end of the matter. Criminal proceedings are set to follow.
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