North West police are searching for Felix Mugi, a Zambian national, after he allegedly scammed a nurse out of R450,000 in a romance scam. The woman, from Mmabatho, met Mugi at a mall in Mahikeng on December 30. The two quickly developed a romantic relationship, during which Mugi introduced her to his “spiritual aunt.”
The aunt told the nurse that the couple was destined to find wealth and assist others. She then gave the victim an empty trunk to pray over, claiming it would bring prosperity. When the trunk was opened, only R200 was found inside, and the aunt convinced the nurse to take out a loan of R450,000, promising it would turn into R3.8 million.
At the end of January, Mugi informed the woman that he was traveling to Botswana, but later told her he had been arrested. The woman’s suspicions grew, and she discovered that the home where Mugi and his aunt had been staying was vacant, with renovations underway. After realizing she had been duped, the woman reported the fraud to the police.
The nurse, in her 50s, explained to authorities how she had been manipulated by Mugi, who claimed to be wealthy and had worked in Dubai. He promised her a life of luxury, including houses and even paying lobola (bride price). The woman also attended prayer meetings led by the aunt, who assured her that their relationship would lead to prosperity.
Authorities are continuing to search for Felix Mugi, with hopes of bringing him to justice.