Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lesotho Times
Published on 2024-03-21 12:33:20
Former Police Commissioner, Holomo Molibeli, exercised his authority within the scope of his office when he obtained a High Court order to seize the property and funds of 15 individuals implicated in the alleged embezzlement of M40 million from Tholo Energy company. This action led to the police conducting raids on various properties, including the popular restaurant and car wash, Shelly Brown, owned by Malerato Khutlisi and her husband, Tumisang Thahanyane. The couple is currently contesting the accusations of fraud and is challenging the legitimacy of the seized assets, claiming that the M40 million in question was actually obtained illicitly by Tholo Energy owner, Thabiso Moroahae, and constitutes proceeds of criminal activity.
These allegations have sparked a legal battle, with the police defending their actions under the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime (amendment) Act of 2016. Detective Senior Inspector Mathaane Lenea supported the police’s actions through an affidavit filed on behalf of the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS). The affidavit was presented in opposition to an application by Malerato Khutlisi seeking the rescission of the preservation order on their properties. The court order had been issued to attach her assets in connection to the alleged theft of M40 million from Tholo Energy.
Malerato Khutlisi and Tumisang Thahanyane have been formally charged with defrauding the energy company, with Thahanyane facing additional charges of misappropriation of funds and abuse of power. They appeared in court alongside 14 others and three companies accused of aiding in the embezzlement scheme. Despite the charges, Khutlisi maintains that the accusations are a smokescreen to divert attention from the true source of the allegedly stolen money, which she claims was taken from Letṧeng Diamonds by Tholo Energy owner, Thabiso Moroahae.
On the other hand, the police refute these claims, asserting that their actions were in line with the law and that Commissioner Holomo had the authority to issue the attachment order. They argue that the allegations of usurping the functions of the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO) are unfounded. The case has seen various legal maneuvers, including demands for Letṧeng Diamonds to be involved in the proceedings and accusations of collusion between Moroahae, the police, and former Commissioner Molibeli.
While the legal proceedings continue, Malerato Khutlisi has been able to reopen her business, Shelly Brown, after legal advice confirmed that the attachment order did not cover the operation of the business itself. The case remains ongoing, with a new judge assigned to oversee the matter. Despite the challenges and legal disputes, Khutlisi remains determined to clear her name and reclaim her seized assets. The saga involving the alleged theft of M40 million continues to unfold in the courts as various parties present their arguments and evidence to seek justice and accountability in this complex financial scandal.
Read the original article on Lesotho Times
