The Free State Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team has pounced on an official in Bloemfontein for allegedly double-dipping in two government spheres. Probing revealed the suspect, Paseka Ishmael Choeu (46), allegedly earned two salaries from the Mangaung Metro Municipality and the Department of Higher Education and Training.
He appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court yesterday – Thursday, 20 June – facing charges of fraud and theft. Capt. Christopher Singo, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said an investigation was launched after information was received in April 2022.
“The investigation revealed that in January 2017, the suspect was employed by the Department of Higher Education and Training as a lecturer at a community education and training college in Bloemfontein. In 2019, he was also employed at the Mangaung Metro Municipality as a financial manager. He was allegedly receiving two salaries from both government departments. It was further reported that the suspect was signing in the on-duty registers at both offices, recording the same time,” said Singo.
He said Choeu handed himself over to the Hawks’ investigating officers yesterday and subsequently appeared in court on counts of fraud and theft.
Singo said the case against Choeu has been remanded to 29 July for transfer to the Bloemfontein Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. The suspect was granted R5 000 bail.
