Latest on Dr Tumi and wife who were arrested for lottery fraud

Famed gospel singer Dr Tumi and his wife had charges of fraud against them withdrawn yesterday.

Dr Tumi, real name Tumisang Makweya and his wife Kgaogela Makweya, stood accused of defrauding the National Lotteries Commission of more than R1.5m.

Charges against the couple were withdrawn in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in the Palm Ridge magistrate’s court.

This happened after the couple submitted representations to the state on why they should not be prosecuted.

In a statement, the Nothing Without You hitmaker said he was relieved by the outcome at court. “The past few months took a toll on us because the matter was sub judice and we couldn’t comment on it.

“We maintained our innocence because we did nothing wrong.

“Handing ourselves over to the authorities was not an admission of guilt, but was out of respect for law enforcement agencies and to allow justice to take its course,” said Makweya.

“This morning we are vindicated, justice has been served, we have no case to answer to.

“We are thankful for the support and love from our family, friends, colleagues and the public at this time.” he said. “We are turning back to life and pursuing our passions and look forward to putting this episode behind us.”

NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane confirmed that charges against the couple were withdrawn.

“This comes after they made successful representations to the state,” she said.