Premier Soccer League (PSL) General Manager Andile “Ace” Ncobo and his wife, Salomie, were released on bail after appearing in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on charges of fraud and money laundering. The charges stem from their alleged involvement in misappropriating a R15 million donation intended for school infrastructure projects in the Eastern Cape.
The couple is facing three charges relating to fraud and money laundering, linked to funds donated by the Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa (PetroSA). Ncobo was granted bail of R50,000, while his wife was released on R30,000 bail following a brief court appearance.
Accusations of CSI Fund Abuse
The state alleges that the pair exploited PetroSA’s corporate social investment (CSI) programme, which provides financial aid to underprivileged schools and community initiatives. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the Ncobos allegedly manipulated the CSI system to benefit themselves, their relatives, and associated entities.
One major focus of the case is a 2008 application by Gangatha Junior Secondary School for funding to build classrooms, laboratories, an administration block, and other facilities. PetroSA approved a R13 million donation for the project, with a so-called “King’s Gangatha Building Trust” set up to manage the construction. However, the trust was not officially registered, and Ncobo—who managed the project—was never officially authorized by the school.
Subsequent investigations uncovered discrepancies in the work delivered. A quantity surveyor’s assessment revealed that the structures and materials used were of subpar quality, amounting to just R5.9 million in value. Rectifying the issues would reportedly cost an additional R398,000.
More Irregularities at Another School
In a separate case involving Nqadu Pre-Grade R School, Ncobo’s wife is alleged to have served as the main contact during another 2008 funding application. PetroSA approved a donation of R485,450, which was paid into a bank account in Great Kei, Eastern Cape. Ncobo reportedly told the school principal he was funding the project himself. Although the school structure was built, no furniture or learning tools were delivered. Additionally, individuals listed as board members in submitted documents denied any involvement and questioned the authenticity of the signatures.
Money Laundering Allegations
The NPA further claims that a total of R15.9 million was funneled through various entities, including Gangatha Projects, Eseswe Projects, Aldrin Andile Baldwin Ncobo Charity Institute, and Aldrin Andile Baldwin Development ILE PR. Most of these entities were unregistered, while Ncobo was found to have full ownership of the registered ones.
Following a poor return on their community investments, PetroSA launched an internal probe through its Risk and Compliance Department. The investigation led to criminal charges being laid against the Ncobos.
Ace Ncobo’s Response
After the court appearance, Ncobo released a statement on his Facebook page expressing confidence in the justice system while denouncing the charges as baseless. He emphasized that all projects undertaken by his company were completed to high standards and stated that the school at the center of the investigation continues to serve its community.
“We have never engaged in any criminal activity,” Ncobo wrote. “The project mentioned in the case was completed nearly 20 years ago and remains a proud legacy for the community.” He requested privacy moving forward, stating that no further public or media comments would be made outside of official court proceedings. The case has been postponed to 29 May to allow for further investigation.
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