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High Court dismisses bail appeal of Nonyane and Tibana

Published

The Limpopo High Court in Polokwane found that Tshwane metro police officer Peter "Gagash" Nonyane and his attorney wife Charlotte Tibana might interfere with witnesses or investigations. They face 123 charges, including fraud and money laundering, and stay in custody.

The prosecution alleges the couple unlawfully withdrew R11 million from 15 deceased estates and then laundered the money. The state raised concerns about witness interference. It also said Tibana contacted witnesses and police officials while under investigation.

The Polokwane Magistrate's Court first refused the couple bail in September. Police arrested them in August, and they have been in custody since then. Two co-accused, Rirhandzu Tibana and Jabulani Maluleke, received R60 000 bail each.

In the appeal, Tibana said she is the primary caregiver to her minor children. She said her continued detention could force her law firm to close and put jobs at risk. Nonyane said he is not a flight risk and will not interfere with state witnesses.

Key facts

Who
Peter Nonyane (Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) officer, accused, known as 'Gagash'); Charlotte Tibana (attorney, accused, wife of Peter Nonyane); Rirhandzu Tibana (co-accused, younger sister of Charlotte Tibana); Jabulani Maluleke (co-accused, Nonyane's friend)
What
Peter 'Gagash' Nonyane and Charlotte Tibana, who are accused with two co-accused of defrauding deceased estates of more than R11 million, are expected to appeal the refusal of bail at the Polokwane High Court. Two co-accused, Rirhandzu Tibana and Jabulani Maluleke, have been granted R60 000 bail each.
When
21 October 2026
Where
Polokwane, Limpopo, Tshwane
Status
Reported

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