A former broadcaster who turned to crime to make a living was handed down a hefty sentence. The Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court sentenced Sabata Israel Papane (60) to 23 years’ direct imprisonment yesterday (03/07).
The court found him guilty of defrauding a property buyer.
Papane’s harsh sentence is the culmination of an investigation by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit based in Bloemfontein. He was found guilty on charges of fraud, money laundering, and contravention of the Estate Agency Affairs Act 112 of 1976.
The matter originates from his failure to repay a woman who purchased a property on 19 June 2014, as corrected by the police. The victim paid R100 000 in cash towards the property.
“The victim discovered that Papane was not the lawful owner of the house, nor designated as an estate agent when she wanted to occupy the house. The victim requested a refund which Papane failed to pay,” said Singo.
He said the woman contacted Papane after seeing numerous property advertisements.
“Papane, who acted as an estate agent, accepted an offer by the victim to purchase the house, and also signed a contract with the victim,” said Singo.
Further probing revealed that Papane was posing as an estate agent while not registered with the Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB), which regulates the estate agency sector.
Also known as Pretty boy, the accused had a sterling career in the media, working for the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). He worked for Lesedi FM in the current affairs segments and his spell spans from the 1990s to mid-2000s. He was also the office bearer of the Broadcast, Electronic, Media and Allied Workers Union (BEMAWU). Papane also had a bright career in professional boxing during the 1980s.
