The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of Kudakwashe Mpofu, the former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the North West Development Corporation (NWDC), for fraud.
On 12 November 2025, the Mmabatho Regional Court handed down the following sentences to Mpofu, a Zimbabwean national:
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Count 1: 3 years’ imprisonment (may be converted to correctional supervision)
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Count 2: 3 years’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for 5 years on condition of no further fraud or corruption offences
Mpofu was found to have used a fraudulent South African Permanent Residence Permit, which he admitted purchasing for R3,000 from a private entity unaffiliated with the Department of Home Affairs. The SIU investigation also revealed additional counterfeit documents in his possession, including:
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A fraudulent Critical/Exceptional Skills Visa
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A fraudulent Work Permit
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A fraudulent Exemption Certificate (dated 1996, when Mpofu was only 5 years old)
Using these fake documents, Mpofu unlawfully:
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Continued working in South Africa after his study visa expired
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Secured high-paying positions at NWDC, earning R900,000 per annum as Assets Manager and later R1.63 million per annum as CFO
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Obtained a South African driver’s licence
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Acquired vehicle finance and purchased luxury vehicles, including a Land Rover Sport, BMW 3 Series, and Ford Ranger
The case originated from a 2023 tip-off to the Department of Home Affairs and formed part of a broader SIU investigation (Proclamation 154 of 2024) into the illegal issuance of visas and permits. The SIU referred the evidence to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), which successfully prosecuted the matter.
This outcome demonstrates effective collaboration between the SIU and NPA and sends a strong message against immigration document fraud and abuse of state positions.
