Struck from the Roll, now facing court over alleged fund theft

Mbombela – Former attorney Clea Hattingh appeared in the White River Magistrate’s Court on Friday over the alleged theft of funds belonging to a deceased estate and trust.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, said Hattingh is facing charges of “theft of deceased estate and trust funds”, as well as contraventions of the Legal Practice Act.

Hattingh was previously registered as a legal practitioner with the Legal Practice Council (LPC) but “has since been struck from the Roll of Attorneys”.

The charges include allegations relating to her “failure to keep proper accounting records” and the “contravention of the Legal Practice Rules”.

The Hawks said the matter was postponed to 26 October 2026, when Hattingh is expected to appear before the Nelspruit Specialised Commercial Crime Court.

The case has been transferred to the specialised court for further proceedings.

Mpumalanga Hawks provincial head Major General Nico Gerber said the investigation and prosecution process would continue.

“The Hawks will continue to ensure that the investigation and prosecution process is conducted thoroughly, with the aim of bringing the matter to its appropriate conclusion,” Gerber said.

The Hawks said it “welcomes the continued progress” in the case against the former attorney.

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