Written by
Sinenhlanhla Masilela
Digital Journalist, IOL
According to Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale, the suspects, aged between 25 and 47, face charges of fraud and money laundering. Reports indicate that the main suspect illicitly processed payments from suspense accounts exceeding R157 million, transferring these funds to individuals not entitled to receive them.
The investigation identified 23 recipients involved in the scheme, comprising 15 individuals, seven entities, and six banks. The suspects are expected to appear in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
In a related case, a 29-year-old woman from North West was sentenced to 15 years in prison for defrauding clients of R3.7 million by promising low-priced luxury vehicles imported from the United States. Nachy Britz was convicted of two counts of fraud in the Brits Magistrate’s Court after tricking victims into believing she was a legitimate businesswoman.
From 2016 to 2018, Britz defrauded unsuspecting clients by presenting herself as an importer of luxury vehicles. One victim lost over R2.9 million for a Ford Mustang and a Harley Davidson motorcycle, while another, in a business partnership with her, paid more than R800,000.
Investigations revealed that Britz used various email accounts to communicate with her victims, providing false updates on their supposed vehicle imports. After failing to deliver, she faced confrontations from victims demanding refunds. While some victims received partial repayments, two remain owed R2.9 million and R800,000 respectively. Following multiple court appearances, Britz received a 15-year sentence for each count of fraud.