Johannesburg – The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation – better known as the Hawks – arrested 14 suspects, including a former Nedbank employee, for fraud involving over R157 million.
The suspects aged between 25 and 47 years were arrested Tuesday morning, (29 October 2024), in Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Krugersdorp by the Gauteng Hawks’ serious commercial crime investigation unit.
The suspects face several charges including fraud and money laundering.
“It is reported that the main suspect unlawfully made payments from suspense accounts valued at over R157 million which were further transferred to recipients who were not entitled to receive such monies,” said Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale.
“The recipients involved are 23, including 15 individuals, seven entities, and six banks.”
Commenting on the arrests, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, extended his commendation to the Gauteng Serious Commercial Crime Investigation of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
Minister Mchunu said: “The swift action taken by our dedicated officers has resulted in the apprehension of individuals implicated in such a complex scheme that unlawfully diverted over R157 million from suspense accounts.
“This operation underscores our commitment to tackling financial crime and protecting the integrity of our banking systems.
“The collaborative efforts leading to this significant breakthrough reflect the effectiveness of our law enforcement agencies in addressing financial misconduct and ensuring that those who engage in such criminal activities are held accountable.
“The suspects will answer for their crimes and we trust that the judicial process will reflect the seriousness of their actions.
“Let this serve as a reminder that we will not tolerate fraud or any form of corruption in our society.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to safeguard our communities and uphold the rule of law.”
The suspects will make their first appearance in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, (30 October 2024).
