A Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) employee, Peter Nonyane, popularly known as “Greater Gagash”, has been arrested by the Hawks in connection with an alleged R1.75 million fraud involving funds from a deceased estate.
Nonyane was arrested in Pretoria on Friday, 14 August 2026, by members of the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team. He is expected to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court.
According to the Hawks, the investigation relates to transactions allegedly made on 28 October 2024 involving money held in the trust account of a deceased estate.
Investigators allege that R1.65 million was transferred directly from the estate’s account to McCarthy Mercedes-Benz Wonderboom towards the purchase of a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz AMG G63. A further payment of R100,000 was also reportedly made to the dealership.
The Hawks said the funds originated from the estate of the late Mr Masha. During the investigation, authorities allegedly found that the names associated with the intended vehicle purchase did not correspond with the details of the deceased estate, raising suspicion about the transactions.
According to investigators, approximately R1.75 million was unlawfully withdrawn from the estate. The Hawks further allege that portions of the money were deposited into Nonyane’s bank account and were being laundered through the purchase of the luxury vehicle, allegedly to the detriment of the estate and its lawful beneficiaries.
The investigation also implicates Nonyane’s wife, Charlotte Tibana, a lawyer and owner of a law firm. The Hawks allege that Tibana authorised and effected the R1.65 million payment from the estate’s bank account to the dealership and that she and Nonyane acted with a common purpose.
Tibana is reportedly being traced by investigators.
The Hawks said the matter was reported to its Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit in Limpopo, after which a case was registered and investigations were conducted.
“Upon finalization of investigations, the docket was submitted to the State Advocate for a decision to prosecute. Warrants of arrest were issued,” the Hawks said.
Nonyane, who is also known as Greater Gagash, has previously been publicly associated with the entertainment industry and has been described as a metro police officer by profession. A 2024 report on his wedding to Tibana identified him as Peter Nonyane and noted his involvement in organising entertainment events.
The allegations against Nonyane and Tibana have not been tested in court. Both remain presumed innocent until proven guilty.
