The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has warned members of the public about an individual allegedly impersonating its Acting Investigating Director, Advocate Ntuthuzelo Vanara, and using his identity to solicit sensitive information linked to a matter before court.
IDAC said the person has been using Vanara’s name and photograph when approaching members of the public. The directorate has also confirmed that the cellphone number being used does not belong to Vanara.
The matter was brought to Vanara’s attention by law enforcement officers and is expected to be referred to the police for investigation.
IDAC spokesperson Henry Mamothame said: “It was, however, established that the number being used doesn’t belong to the Acting ID.”
He added: “The information on the imposter’s conduct was brought to the attention of the Acting ID by law enforcement officers, on the basis of which the matter will be referred to the police for investigations to unfold.”
Nombasa drawn into impersonation attempt
Screenshots shared by IDAC show the alleged imposter communicating with Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu, a businesswoman and key state witness in the corruption and money-laundering trial involving former defence minister and National Assembly speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.
In the exchange, the person presents themselves as Vanara and engages Nombasa about the court proceedings.
Nombasa tells the person that she is tired from court, before the alleged imposter responds by encouraging her to persevere.
The exchange includes references to the court case and Mapisa-Nqakula’s denial of the allegations.
Who is Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu?
Nombasa is a former South African National Defence Force contractor and businesswoman who became a key state witness in the case against Mapisa-Nqakula.
She has testified that Mapisa-Nqakula allegedly solicited and received about R4.5 million in bribes between 2016 and 2019, during her time as defence minister. Mapisa-Nqakula has pleaded not guilty and has consistently denied receiving money from Nombasa or committing corruption.
Nombasa turned state witness under Section 204 of the Criminal Procedure Act and has given evidence in the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria. Her testimony has been central to the State’s case.
The trial remains ongoing, with Mapisa-Nqakula continuing to dispute the allegations against her.
IDAC urges public to remain vigilant
IDAC has urged members of the public to exercise caution when approached by anyone claiming to represent Vanara or the directorate, particularly where sensitive information relating to an active court matter is requested.
“Members of the public are urged to be vigilant and not to fall victim to criminality by the impostor,” Mamothame said.
“The IDAC strongly condemns the perpetrator(s) of such conduct.”
Vanara was appointed Acting Head of IDAC on 3 September 2026 following the resignation of Advocate Andrea Johnson. He is serving in the position on secondment from the Special Investigating Unit, where he is Chief Legal Counsel.
The identity of the person behind the alleged impersonation has not been publicly established, and the matter is being referred for police investigation.
