Gauteng, South Africa – Justice Motsamai Khanyapa, 38, has been arrested in connection with a romance scam that defrauded a woman of more than R3 million. Investigations by the Hawks revealed that some of the stolen funds were deposited directly into his bank account.
The victim, whose identity is being protected, believed she was in a relationship with a man named “Mark Hermanus.” Over time, she transferred large sums of money, thinking she was lending it to him. It was only later that she realized she had fallen victim to a scam.
Last week, IOL reported that a second suspect was arrested in Gauteng in connection with the same case. Authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover the full extent of the fraud network.
According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Thatohatsi Mavimbela, Khanyapa appeared before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court, where he was denied bail and remains in custody.
Law enforcement officials warn the public to be cautious of online and romance scams, urging individuals to verify identities before transferring money to unknown parties.
