North West Agriculture official in court over tender corruption charges

Potchefstroom – A North West Department of Agriculture employee has appeared in the Potchefstroom Magistrates’ Court on corruption charges linked to an alleged tender-related bribery scheme.

Seabelo Lebitse (43) appeared on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, facing three counts of corruption after his arrest earlier the same day by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit based in Klerksdorp.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lebitse is accused of soliciting gratification from a service provider in connection with a departmental tender.

“It is alleged that in October 2020, the accused approached a service provider who had submitted documents to bid for a tender at the North West Department of Agriculture,” SAPS said.

Lebitse allegedly offered to assist in securing the tender in exchange for personal benefits.

“Lebitse reportedly told the service provider that he would assist in facilitating the awarding of the tender on condition that he takes care of him,” police said.

Investigations revealed that the service provider made several payments to the accused.

“The service provider paid Lebitse R10 000 for the purchase of his vehicle’s tyres,” SAPS said, adding that further payments of R2 000 and R1 000 were also made on separate occasions.

The service provider later secured a service level agreement (SLA) with the department for the construction of a tunnel and installation of fishponds.

“Following an investigation, the accused was apprehended and charged with three counts of corruption,” SAPS said.

Lebitse was granted R5 000 bail, and the case has been postponed to 7 May 2026. He is expected to appear before the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Klerksdorp for further proceedings.