KNYSNA NEWS - An investigation is under way into allegations of fraud involving an employee at Sunridge Primary School after funds were allegedly misappropriated from the school's bank account through unauthorised transactions. 

The matter is being investigated by Knysna detectives following the opening of a fraud case in April.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Chris Spies confirmed that detectives are probing allegations that money was transferred from the school's bank account without authorisation. "Investigation is still under way; no arrests have been made yet," he said.

Outstanding municipal payments

According to information received, the alleged fraud came to light when the municipality contacted the school regarding outstanding payments linked to its account. 

It is alleged that multiple fraudulent bank accounts were created and linked to existing supplier profiles, including accounts associated with municipal payments. 

Funds were allegedly redirected into these accounts over a period of time.

Sources familiar with the matter allege that significant sums may have been involved. However, the full extent of the financial impact is unclear. 

While preliminary estimates place the alleged losses at around R800 000, the amount has not been officially confirmed. 

According to allegations, a detailed assessment is still under way to determine the full extent of the suspected fraud.

The school's principal reportedly initiated an internal enquiry after being alerted to the discrepancies linked to the municipal accounts. It is alleged that further checks revealed inconsistencies in supplier banking details used for payments.

It has further been alleged that verification with the school's banking institution indicated that at least one of the accounts receiving payments was not a municipal account, but was instead allegedly linked to a school employee.

These allegations have not been tested in court and remain subject to ongoing investigation.

WCED confirms internal process

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that its district office is attending to a matter at Sunridge Primary School but said it cannot comment on specific details.

"As the investigation is at an early stage and subject to an internal process, and in line with due process and procedural fairness, the department cannot comment on the details at this time. Any further information will be subject to the outcome of the ongoing process," said WCED spokesperson Millicent Merton. 

"The WCED remains committed to upholding sound governance in schools. Appropriate action, should it be necessary, will be taken in accordance with departmental policies and applicable legislation."

Investigation ongoing

Police investigations are continuing, and no arrests have been made at this stage. Authorities have urged that due process be followed and cautioned against speculation while both criminal and internal investigations are under way. 

The individual implicated has not been charged and is entitled to the presumption of innocence until the investigation is concluded.

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