By Sithandiwe Velaphi
Christopher Andrew Joe, a 44-year-old businessman from the Eastern Cape, was found guilty of defrauding the South African Police Service (SAPS) of R160 000. Joe, the sole director of Innova Motorworks Pty Ltd, was arrested in February 2024 and charged with fraud after submitting false claims for repairs made to a police vehicle.
In November 2022, Joe’s company was contracted to repair a Ford Ranger that had broken down in Aliwal North. He invoiced the SAPS for a full engine replacement, along with new turbo and injectors. However, after a follow-up inspection by an SAPS mechanic, it was discovered that the vehicle still had its original engine, the turbo was only superficially cleaned, and the injectors were not replaced, despite Joe’s claims.
This deception resulted in a significant financial loss for the police service.
In court on Friday, the Komani Regional Court sentenced Joe to five years in prison, with the sentence wholly suspended on the condition that he repays the SAPS insurer more than R150 000, including 11.75% interest, by February 28, 2025. The Hawks, led by Major-General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, commended the investigating team for their dedication in bringing Joe to justice.
This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of fraud and the importance of accountability in business dealings with government entities.