Prominent businessman and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party funder, Louis Liebenberg, along with his wife has been arrested on multiple charges of racketeering money-laundering fraud and corruption. The arrest, made by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) on Monday morning, follows a long-running investigation into Liebenberg financial dealings.
Liebenberg who is well-known for his support of the MK Party was apprehended at his luxurious home in Gauteng. His wife, whose identity has not been disclosed at this time, was also taken into custody. The couple is accused of orchestrating a complex financial scheme involving the illegal movement and laundering of large sums of money. According to investigators, the funds were allegedly derived from fraudulent business dealings and other illicit activities.
Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo confirmed the arrests, stating that the investigation had been ongoing for several months. Mr. Louis Liebenberg and his wife have been under investigation for their alleged involvement in a criminal enterprise involving money laundering, fraud, and corruption. We have gathered substantial evidence that suggests their direct involvement in these illegal activities Mbambo said.
The charges include racketeering under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, as well as multiple counts of fraud and corruption linked to questionable business practices. The Hawks allege that the couple funneled millions of rand through a series of shell companies and offshore accounts to conceal the origins of the money. Additionally, they are accused of using fraudulent schemes to solicit investments from unsuspecting individuals, diverting these funds for personal gain.
Liebenberg has been a high-profile figure in political circles particularly through his financial support of the MK Party and its former members. However the current investigation has raised concerns about the sources of his wealth and whether any of the illicit funds were used to support political activities. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of more arrests as they continue to probe Liebenberg financial network and those who may have been involved in facilitating or benefiting from the illegal schemes.
Following their arrest, both Liebenberg and his wife were taken to a police station for processing, and they are expected to appear in court later this week. The couple legal team has yet to issue a public statement but it is anticipated that they will apply for bail.
The news of the arrests has sent shockwaves through political and business communities, with many calling for a thorough and transparent investigation. A spokesperson for the MK Party expressed dismay over the allegations but emphasized that the party had no knowledge of any illegal activities conducted by Liebenberg. We are shocked to learn about the allegations surrounding Mr. Liebenberg. While he has supported our cause we were unaware of any criminal behavior and we fully support the investigation the spokesperson said.
The case is expected to draw significant public attention as it unfolds, given the high-profile nature of Liebenberg’s involvement with the MK Party and his prominence in South African business circles. Investigators are working to trace the full extent of the money-laundering scheme and determine whether any other political or business figures were implicated.
For now Louis Liebenberg and his wife remain in police custody as they prepare to face charges that could lead to lengthy prison sentences if they are convicted.
