Sibongile Mani was found guilty of theft after receiving R14 million from the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) by mistake.
In 2017, instead of R1400, more than R14 million was mistakenly placed into the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) student account.
Within 3 days, Mani spent over R800 000 before her account was eventually blocked by Intellimali. Instead of reporting what had clearly been a major error to NSFAS, Mani went on the mother of all spending sprees.
It is believed that she splurged the money on weaves, cellphones, toys etc. Intellimali has since reimbursed the institution for the staggering amount of money Mani is said to have squandered.
At the time of the incident, Mani was the branch secretary of the Pan Africanist Student Movement of Azania at East London’s Postdam campus.
East London Regional Court magistrate Twanet Olivier said Mani was aware of her actions when she spent the money.
“The court is satisfied that the version of the state is reliable,” the magistrate said.
Mani will be sentenced on 8 March 2022.
Social media was abuzz after the judgement was set. While many came into Mani’s defense, others welcomed and applauded the judgement.
“A student gets R14 million transferred by NSFAS into her account, spent it and it is considered theft and then got convicted by courts. Politicians transfer billions amongst their cronies and it is considered corruption allegations. Sibongile Mani should appeal this ruling,” one user wrote on Twitter.
“I have a problem with this, who on the side of NSFAS was held accountable for negligence?” another user asked.
Thabo Shingane said the fact that Sibongile Mani has been found guilty of theft left a bitter taste in his mouth. “Who from NSFAS and Intellimali is being held accountable for this? Because had they not deposited the R14 million into her account, she would not be in this position she is in now.”
Share on Facebook «||»
Share on Twitter «||»
Share on Reddit «||»
Share on LinkedIn Read Related News On TDPel Media
Advertisement
Sibongile’s sugar daddy: Inside Aubrey Mmakola’s role in ‘Gomora’: Seasoned actor Aubrey Mmakola recently joined Gomora as Sibongile’s sugar daddy and educator – Mr Leballo after the exit of fan-favourite characters Melusi and Phumlani....
‘My professional loss, my children receiving death threats, and my misery are irreversible. Upon being found not guilty of animal cruelty, a primary school teacher who was fired after being seen on camera kicking and punching her horse chokes back her tears.: Advertisements A primary school teacher, previously dismissed from her career due to her appearance in a viral video where she was seen striking a horse,...
‘My professional loss, my children receiving death threats, and my misery are irreversible. Upon being found not guilty of animal cruelty, a primary school teacher who was fired after being seen on camera kicking and punching her horse chokes back her tears.: A primary school teacher, previously dismissed from her career due to her appearance in a viral video where she was seen striking a horse, held...
NSFAS releases 2020 funding list for eligible students: The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has advised all NSFAS eligible students with successful funding status to proceed with registration for the 2022 academic...
NSFAS cleared from R14 million saga: The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has noted and welcomed the East London Regional Court ruling, which proved that the scheme was not involved...
NSFAS Announces Second Payment for Black Card Users with Banking Safety Tips: The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has disclosed the date for the second payment to university students utilizing the newly introduced black card. Advertisement...
NSFAS CEO Andile Nongogo investigated for alleged corruption and irregularities in the direct payment system: The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board has given its CEO Andile Nongogo seven days to explain why he should not be fired following...
NSFAS opens bursary application for 2024 academic year: Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has urged all learners who wish to enter the post-school system and students, who do not have...
NSFAS and SASSA might face extinction if ANC is removed from power – Ramaphosa: President Ramaphosa, addressing an ANC gathering in Mbombela, sounded a cautionary note, stating that crucial initiatives like NSFAS and SASSA might face extinction if the...
Former Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami Denies Receiving EFCC Invitation Amidst Controversy: …By Larry John for TDPel Media. Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has refuted reports claiming that he was...