By Thapelo Molefe
A former Student Representative Council (SRC) member at Rustenburg TVET College, Tholakele Mdluli (24), has been released on R1 000 bail after being arrested by the Hawks for allegedly misappropriating student funds.
Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale confirmed on Friday that Mdluli’s case has been postponed to 12 February 2026, where additional charges may be added.
Mdluli was arrested on Wednesday in Rustenburg by members of the Hawks’ Serious Economic Offences Section, based in Pretoria.
According to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Mdluli allegedly accessed and manipulated students’ Tenet accounts without authorisation in 2023 while assisting first-year NSFAS applicants.
“It is alleged that the suspect withdrew funds at retail stores and subsequently explained to students how to access their allowances after misappropriating the money,” the Hawks said.
A total of R14 000 was allegedly withdrawn from seven students’ accounts.
A case was opened and handed to the Hawks, leading to her arrest. Mdluli briefly appeared in the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court on Thursday and was granted bail.
INSIDE EDUCATION
