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The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) says it has welcomed the conviction of its former employee, Daniel Mthimkhulu.
Mthimkhulu was sentenced to 15-year in prison at the Palm Ridge Commercial Crimes Court after he was found guilty of nine counts including fraud, uttering and forgery – by allegedly misrepresenting his qualifications to PRASA.
He claimed among others, to have acquired a Master’s degree from the University of Witwatersrand, as well as a Doctorate in Engineering Management from the Technische Universitat Munchen (Munich Technical University) in Germany upon his arrest in July 2015.
Between 2010 and 2015, the 49-year-old was employed as the head of engineering at PRASA, receiving an annual salary of R2.8 million.Â
National Prosecuting Authority(NPA) regional spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane stated that while Mthimkhulu pleaded not guilty, the overwhelming evidence against him undermined any claim of remorse.Â
In March the Johannesburg High Court ordered that Mthimkhulu pay back an amount of R5.7 million to PRASA to recoup the proceeds of crime, and the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit received an order to attach his assets.
PRASA will not tolerate any fraudulent behaviour
The agency said the sentence meted out will send a strong message to those who attempt to defraud or participate in corrupt actions at PRASA and other state entities.
“PRASA will not tolerate any fraudulent behaviour and remain focused building on the successful turnaround and dedicate our attention to providing a safe and affordable rail transportation for the people of this country.
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“The successful conviction of Mthimkhulu also sends a message to those who previously engaged in fraudulent behaviour at PRASA and those who are contemplating illegal activities: justice is sometimes slow but the long arm of the law does catch up with criminals,” PRASA spokesperson Andiswa Makanda highlighted.
