File: Themba Mathibe (CEO of JDA) during the phase one opening of the Johannesburg City Library on March 21, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. The reopening of this iconic landmark reflects the city's dedication to preserving its' cultural assets while fostering a vibrant community hub for generations to come. Gallo Images/Lubabalo Lesolle
JOHANNESBURG - Just hours after the fraud case against Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) chief executive Themba Mathibe was struck off the roll, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) indicated its intention to re-enroll the matter.
Mathibe appeared before the Alexandra Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, where the State revealed that its investigations were not yet complete.
As requested, additional time to finalise outstanding forensic processes and to download and examine electronic evidence seized during the investigation
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But the defence argued against the request, saying there was no basis for the matter to remain on the court roll while investigations were still ongoing.
After considering submissions from both parties, the court ruled that there was no reason to keep the matter on the roll pending the completion of investigations and struck it off the roll.
NPA Gauteng spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole said the prosecuting authority noted with concern that no formal enquiry was conducted into the reasonableness of the delay as required by law.
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However, he stressed that the court's decision does not amount to an acquittal and does not prevent the State from pursuing the matter in the future.
Mohlatlole confirmed that it is engaging with SAPS to expedite outstanding investigations with a view to re-enroll the case.
The case comes after authorities discovered R321,000 in cash at Mathibe's residence during the execution of a search-and-seizure operation.
The operation was linked to an ongoing corruption investigation at Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO), for which Mathibe is the acting CEO.
The State alleges that Mathibe failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for the possession of the cash.