LIMPOPO – The Mokopane Magistrates’ Court has refused bail to Mogalakwena Local Municipality manager Morris Maluleke (43) who faces charges of fraud, corruption and money laundering linked to a fleet management tender worth R24 million.

Maluleke appeared in court for his formal bail application, which a team of senior state advocates opposed.

The National Prosecuting Authority alleges that Maluleke initially approved a fleet contract valued at approximately R4 million but later authorised payments totalling R24 million, resulting in substantial financial loss to the municipality.

“The State argued that Maluleke faces serious charges of fraud, corruption and money laundering. It further submitted that he may interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations, and that his release on bail would not be in the interests of justice at this stage,” NPA regional spokesperson for Limpopo, Mashudu Malabi, said.

The court agreed with the State’s submissions and denied Maluleke bail. He failed to prove, on a balance of probabilities, that he should be released.

Investigators arrested Maluleke on 7 October, together with his company, Bona Cord Vulstasie, in connection with the allegations.

The State claims that in December 2022, Maluleke irregularly awarded a R24 million fleet tender to Fleetmove (Pty) Ltd without following the prescribed supply chain management processes. Although payments allegedly began in January 2023, services were only rendered between April and May 2023, after the municipality’s Legal Division threatened to terminate the contract.

The investigation uncovered allegations that payments totalling R230 000, which the State believes were kickbacks, were made into an account linked to Maluleke through a company of which he is the sole director.

The matter has been postponed to 3 November for further investigation. Maluleke remains in custody.

Malabi said the NPA welcomes the court’s decision and remains committed to ensuring accountability for corruption and the misuse of public funds.