A 43-year-old, well-known attorney and his three administrators between the ages 33 and 35, were detained by the Nelspruit based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team on Wednesday, 2 May 2024, for fraud and impersonating an attorney.
The arrest followed after complaints were received by the Hawks regarding several estates, which were administered by the suspects and claimed by the victims through the bogus attorney for more than three years but never received any pay outs.
Investigation was carried forward, and it was established that the said attorney was not legitimate, with the assistance from his administrators they recruited unsuspecting persons in winding up of their estates. They approached the Master of High Court to obtain Letters of Executors in order to windup the estates. After receiving money for the winding up of the estate, they kept the money for themselves without transferring such to the beneficiaries.
The investigation was finalised and warrant of arrest was authorised and executed on Wednesday. The four detained suspects are expected to appear before the Nelspruit District Court on Friday, 03 May 2024 for first appearance.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks Major General Gerber applauded the whistle blowers for coming forward and reporting these incidents which left more than 16 families without income. He also hailed the determination and speedy finalization of the case by the investigating team which lead to the successful detention of the fraudsters.
Major General Gerber further request more possible victims who had similar experience to report the matter to the investigating officer Warrant Officer Portia Sanderson on 082 772 2318 or the Commander Col Jerry Maphanga on 072 575 4274. He also assures the public that all information received will be treated with confidentiality.
He concluded by making a commitment to the public saying “ the Hawks shall investigate and arrest all criminals who threaten the safety and livelihood of our communities without fear, favour or prejudice”.
