THOHOYANDOU - The Department of Justice in Thohoyandou has suspended three of its staff members for allegedly misusing funds in the maintenance office.

The three officers Muswodi Phathela (33), Livhuwani Mphagi (32) and Aifheli Muofhe were arrested by Thohoyandou police and suspended on allegations of being responsible for the misappropriation of R41 980.

Police spokesperson, Capt Ailwei Mushavhanamadi said they have arrested the three officers after the department reported the case to them. Mushavhanamadi said the officials were accused of being responsible for the missing amount, which was deposited by parents who were maintaining their children.

Suspicions came after the maintaining parents proved beyond reasonable doubt that they have deposited their monies into the department's account. It was then established that the money was not entered into the card so that the beneficiaries can access them.

The three appeared before the Thohoyandou Magistrate's court on November 2. They were released on R1 000 bail each. Their case will be heard again on November 25 this month.