Police close probe into missing R465 000 mayoral chain

STILL MISSING

- MASABATA MKWANANZI

GAUTENG police have shut down their investigation into the disappearance of Sedibeng’s R465 000 mayoral chain, with no arrests made and the symbolic piece of regalia still missing more than two years later.

This follows the mysterious disappearance of the mayoral chain after the State of the District Address on June 23, 2023. Mayor Lerato Maloka had allegedly placed it on a shelf in her office, but it was never seen again.

A case of theft was only officially opened in November 2023, nearly five months after the chain disappeared. The lengthy delay in reporting the matter has fuelled speculation about possible cover-ups and raised questions about why immediate steps were not taken to recover the costly ceremonial item.

Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that no arrests had been made and directed inquiries to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

“A theft case was opened and investigations were conducted, and the docket was brought before the Deputy Public Prosecutor, who declined to prosecute; hence, the matter was closed on 25 July 2025.