Kudakwashe Mpofu (33), a Zimbabwean national, appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrate's s Court yesterday on fraud charges. Mpofu was arrested on Tuesday in Mahikeng, North West by the Hawks following an investigation into allegations of using fake papers when applying for the job.

USED FAKE PAPERS TO GET LUCRATIVE JOB

North West NPA spokesperson Sivenathi Gunya said Mpofu submitted a fraudulent South African permanent residence permit when he applied for a job at the North West Development Corporation in March 2023. "Reports indicate that the accused was subsequently hired as an asset manager and later became an acting chief financial officer. Shortly after that, he was appointed permanently as the CFO. The accused was reportedly paid over R3 million in salaries," Gunya said. He appeared in court, and his matter was postponed to 03 February 2025 for a formal bail application.

NOT FIRST ARREST

Mpofu was first arrested in March last year on charges of fraud and contravening the Immigration Act after he used a fraudulent permit to remain in the country. The then Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, told the media that the former CFO was informed as far back as 23 June 2023, that his permanent residence permit was fraudulent. Motsoaledi also called Mpofu's appointment without proper vetting an embarrassment to the country. Mpofu later resigned as a CFO after his arrest.