Zimbabwean man lands top SA job with fraudulent documents

Zimbabwean man Kudakwashe Mpofu allegedly used a fraudulent permanent residence permit to secure a top job in South Africa.

Kudakwashe Mpofu allegedly used fraudlent documents to earn a top job

Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court denies bail to ex-CFO Kudakwashe Mpofu. Image: SAPS

A 33-year-old Zimbabwean man, Kudakwashe Mpofu, allegedly used a fraudulent permanent residence permit to secure a top position at the North West Development Corporation in South Africa.

The Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation unit later arrested him for fraud. The National Prosecuting Authority stated that Mpofu, facing a fraud charge, appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrate Court in the North West.

The court denied Mpofu bail, and he will appear before the Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Mmabatho on March 19, 2025, for trial.

Fraudulent Appointment and Career Progression

Investigations reveal that the North West Development Corporation advertised a position for an Asset Manager in March 2021. The job opening was for its Head Office in Mafikeng. Mpofu applied for the role, submitting all necessary documents, including a fraudulent permanent residence permit.

“The accused was subsequently hired as an asset manager and later became an acting chief financial officer. Shortly after that, he was appointed on a permanent basis as the CFO,” said North West Hawks spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula.

Investigation into fraudulent documentation

Following his arrest, authorities discovered that South African Home Affairs had never issued the permanent residence permit Mpofu submitted. The Hawks’ investigation confirmed the fraudulent nature of his documentation, leading to his court appearance at Mmabatho Magistrates’ Court on fraud charges.

Bail Denied Amid Flight Risk Concerns

During his bail application, the State opposed his release, citing that he was a flight risk and could evade trial. The prosecution submitted an affidavit from a Department of Home Affairs official. The department declared the permit fraudulent and invalid.