NPA probes Joburg Development Agency boss Themba Mathibe over R2 million cash haul claims
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has launched an urgent internal review after reports suggested the agency “curbed” a case against Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) CEO Themba Mathibe, despite alleged evidence of a R2 million cash‑in‑transit (CIT) heist.
Newly appointed National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Advocate Andy Mothibi has requested a comprehensive briefing from the Gauteng Local Division (Johannesburg) Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Livingstone Sakata, following the reports.
The NPA said on Saturday that it was “concerned” about a News24 story titled “NPA ‘curbs’ JDA boss Themba Mathibe’s R2m ‘cash-in-transit heist’ case, despite evidence”.
The head of communications for NPA, Bulelwa Makeke, confirmed that an internal investigation is under way to verify the allegations.
“This follows another story published last Saturday 31 January 2026 by News24 titled “Did the NPA ‘interfere’ in a R64 million fraud and corruption in City of Joburg,” Makeke said.
“According to the two stories, the cases could not be enrolled despite an allegation reported by the journalist, that there was sufficient evidence to prosecute.”
She said while Mothibi is constrained from commenting on how the cases have been handled, he is concerned about the public perception created by the reports.
Makeke said the investigation aims to establish the veracity of the allegations and ensure appropriate measures are taken.
“Adv Mothibi assures the public that where alleged criminality is identified with relevant and admissible evidence, impunity will never be allowed, and accountability will be ensured in all those matters to ensure that the rule of law is upheld,” Makeke added.
Mathibe, 28, who also serves as the acting CEO of the Johannesburg Social Housing Company (Joshco), was arrested last month after police allegedly discovered a substantial amount of cash at his Sandton home.
He was released on R50,000 bail by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court and faces money-laundering charges.
National Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the arrest followed an extensive investigation into alleged procurement irregularities at the Johannesburg Social Housing Company.
Officers acted on a J51 search-and-seizure warrant, raiding Mathibe’s home and offices.
Investigations are ongoing, and further arrests have not been ruled out.
Joshco previously confirmed that some employees were questioned but said the entity had received no official communication confirming the arrest of any staff member or executive.
“The entity cannot confirm any arrest or allegations at this stage, as it would be inappropriate to comment on unverified information,” spokesperson Nthabiseng Mphela said.
Meanwhile, the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) recently expressed concern over the allegations.
The youth league president Collen Malatji, who described Mathibe as a “youth league investment,” said the organisation would request a formal explanation from him.
“So far, we only have rumours from the media. We need a proper explanation to understand what happened and respond appropriately,” Malatji said.
He warned that the allegations, if true, could represent a significant setback for the league.
simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za
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