According to information shared by a student and local residents, eleven individuals and four companies were recently arrested in Lephalale for allegedly defrauding NSFAS.
The arrests took place on 20 April 2026, and the suspects appeared in court the following day, facing charges of fraud and theft linked to student bursary funds.
Residents claim the scheme dates from 2017 at Lephalale TVET College, were certain staff members allegedly diverted funds meant for students for their own benefit.
It is believed that the money was hidden through bank accounts opened in relative’s names and through companies set up to conceal the transactions.
The accused have since been granted bail and are expected to return to court on 7 May 2026.
Community members say they are concerned about the misuse of funds meant to support students and hope justice will be served.
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