A former attorney, Clea Hattingh, has appeared before the White River Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga in connection with the alleged theft of funds belonging to a deceased estate and a trust.
Hattingh appeared in court on Friday, 11 September 2026. She was previously registered as a legal practitioner with the Legal Practice Council but has since been struck from the Roll of Attorneys.
She faces charges of allegedly stealing funds from a deceased estate and trust, as well as contravening the Legal Practice Act and Legal Practice Rules.
The Hawks allege that Hattingh also failed to maintain proper accounting records as required by law.
The case has now been transferred to the Nelspruit Specialised Commercial Crime Court, where Hattingh is expected to appear on 26 October 2026.
The Hawks say investigations and the prosecution process will continue.
Mpumalanga Hawks Provincial Head Major General Nico Gerber says the investigation will be conducted thoroughly to ensure the matter reaches its appropriate conclusion.
The Hawks are investigating the case through the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
