The City of Tshwane can confirm a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the illegal transfer of about R11 million into fraudulent municipal accounts.
A former Director and Accountant within the City Ms. Tienka Abbort, who has been evading arrest in connection with this matter, was eventually arrested and appeared before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court yesterday morning, June 3, 2025.
This follows an intensive tracing operation led by the City’s Forensic Services Division, working in close collaboration with the Lyttleton SAPS.
Abbort’s identity is disclosed as she has now appeared in court and the city is compelled to alert customers who may still be targeted in further attempts to perpetuate this scam.
During her court appearance, Ms. Abbort requested bail in the amount of R5,000.
The National Prosecuting Authority refused, and requested that bail be set at R200,000.
However, court ultimately granted her bail at R50,000,subject to thefollowing strict conditions:
•She must surrender all her travel documents;
•Report twice a week to her nearest police station; and,
•Remain at her current residence unless she informs the Investigating Officer
At the time of issuing this statement,
Ms. Abbort had not yet paid the bail amount.
The investigation remains active and will now focus on uncovering any potential collusion between Ms. Abbort and the account holders who unlawfully benefited from these transfers.
The City’s Revenue Management Division is currently reviewing the affected accounts and will initiate reversal processes where necessary to ensure full compliance with Credit Management policies.
We strongly urge residents to be vigilant against individuals or groups posing as agents who claim that they can “clear” a municipal debt.
These schemes are fraudulent. Although they may appear to offer temporary relief, balances will be reinstated, and participating residents may face criminal charges for fraud and lose any money paid to syndicate members.
Residents in debt are encouraged to visit any of the city’s Customer Care Walk-In-Centres to make legitimate, sustainable arrangements.
City Manager Johann Mettler expressed gratitude to the Forensic Services Division team for the sterling work they have done to root out corruption in the city.
“Their commitment has gone beyond traditional practices. They are not only identifying and reporting criminal conduct but also ensuring there is follow-through regarding accountability.
While they do not possess arrest powers, their determination has allowed law enforcement to act swiftly and effectively.
We believe the City’s fight against financial crime would be significantly strengthened by designating Forensic Investigators as peace officers under the Criminal Procedure Act, a move that could enhance our capacity to act decisively and in real time,” Mettler said.