Alex Matlala

The Phalaborwa municipality suspended a senior official yesterday for allegedly embezzling R232000.

Mashudu Mulati, 40, was allegedly found out after a forensic audit. Another official, Kholofelo Shingange, 29, thought to be involved, has disappeared. Municipal officials said a third person was also involved, but would not name her.

All they would say is that she is on sick leave and is suffering from an incurable disease.

Municipal manager, Isaiah Nyathi, said Mulati and his accomplices would appear before a disciplinary hearing next week. He did not elaborate on the missing Shingange or the sick woman.