A former company director is set to appear before the Thabamoopo Magistrates Court in Lebowakgomo on Monday, facing charges of allegedly defrauding a pensioner of R378,000.
According to Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, spokesperson for Limpopo’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, the 57-year-old suspect was apprehended last Friday in Thabazimbi. His arrest was the result of a collaborative operation involving the Hawks’ serious commercial crimes unit in Polokwane, local detectives, the Rural Safety Network, area farmers, and Zimbi Security.
The case dates back to 2007, when an advertisement in a business magazine named Succeed promoted franchise opportunities for PHD Health Market. Interested in purchasing a franchise, the victim contacted the company’s head office and was connected to the accused, who introduced himself as a director of PHD Health Market. The suspect allegedly quoted the franchise price at R700,000, requesting an initial deposit of R150,000. The victim complied, and a subsequent meeting was arranged in Polokwane, where the accused discussed assisting her in securing a business location.
At this meeting, the suspect allegedly requested an additional R228,000 to cover equipment costs. After paying the full amount, the victim never received the promised equipment, leading her to file a complaint with the Lebowakgomo police station in 2009. The case was subsequently transferred to the Hawks for a thorough investigation.
The Hawks’ investigation revealed that the main suspects had relocated to Australia. With an arrest warrant issued, surveillance was maintained on the primary suspect, who had recently returned to Gauteng. An operation was organized, leading to the suspect’s capture as he attempted to evade authorities, heading toward Thabazimbi. Local law enforcement collaborated to apprehend him in a rural area nearby.
The co-accused, Pieter Antonio Dupper, was also arrested and has since been released on R10,000 bail. Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks, Brigadier Lesibana Meshack Malapile, commended the joint efforts of police, local farmers, and security personnel that led to the successful arrests.
The case highlights ongoing efforts to address fraud and financial crimes targeting vulnerable individuals in South Africa.
