A 41-year-old Limpopo speech therapist and audiologist on Tuesday made a brief appearance at Thabamoopo magistrate’s court in Lebowakgomo facing charges of fraud amounting to over R1,2-million.
False medical claims
Limpopo director for priority crime investigation (Hawks) spokesperson Lethunya Mmuroa confirmed the matter. He said Dr Lesiba Morgan Gololo was arrested for submitting false medical aid claims.
“It is alleged that between January 2014 and November 2016, the accused allegedly submitted false documents to the Bonitas Medical Aid scheme. He claimed medical expenses whereas he didn’t render medical services,” said Mmuroa.
“According to the reports, Dr Gololo conducted awareness campaigns at Zebidiela.
“The attendees completed his self-made attendance register. He utilised their personal details from the register, submitted them to the Bonitas Medical Aid scheme. He alleged that he provided them with hearing [loss] devices,” he said.
The falsified claims were processed and, as a result, Bonitas medical aid scheme suffered a loss amounting to over R1,2-million.
Forensic audit conducted
Bonitas medical aid became suspicious and conducted a forensic audit.
“After noticing the shenanigans, they contacted Polokwane-based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for assistance.
“Investigations revealed that none of the victims was aware of the claims and did not experience any hearing difficulties.
Arrest, bail
“A case docket of fraud was opened at Magatle police station in Zebediela and transferred to Polokwane Hawk’s Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for further handling.”
Gololo was arrested on Monday December 19, 2023 and charged. He was released on R1,500 bail.
The matter was postponed to February 1, 2024 for further investigations.
