Senior official at Limpopo premier’s office arrested for “bogus” academic qualifications

A senior official in the office of the premier in Limpopo has been arrested by the Hawks for allegedly misrepresenting academic qualifications in 2012.

Michael Maseko (59) appeared in the Polokwane magistrate court on Thursday facing a charge of fraud. He remanded in custody and will appear again on 23 April 2024.

Provincial Hawks spokespersons, Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, said Maseko allegedly misrepresented his qualifications when applying for a senior manager position in charge of human resource management.

“As a result of his misrepresentation, he was shortlisted and eventually appointed into the position. His appointment prejudiced the office of the premier which suffered a loss of more than R11 million.

“The matter was reported to the Hawks for further investigation. The case was thoroughly investigated and subsequently a warrant of arrest was authorized by the National Prosecuting Authority,” Mmuroa said.