A group of eight individuals, namely Loba Mathonsi, Shogole Ramaisile, Johanna Ramodike, Winnie Molala, Raesibe Masopogo, Merriam Kekana, Oniky Morema, and Refiloe Ramokolo, appeared in the Makhado Magistrate Court today, 29 January 2024.
They are facing charges of fraud in connection with a series of alleged fraudulent activities that took place between June and September 2019.
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According to reports, the accused used fraudulent bank statements and Government Employee Pension Fund (GEPF) letters to apply for personal loans at a cash loans business in Makhado.
These applications were processed and approved, resulting in the accused receiving over two hundred and fifty thousand rand (R250 000) in payments.
The management of the cash loan business discovered the fraudulent activities and promptly reported the matter to the Makhado police. Subsequently, the case was transferred to the Polokwane-based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit for further investigation.
The Hawks’ investigations revealed that the accused were recruited by an outstanding suspect believed to be the mastermind behind the fraudulent scheme.
After a thorough investigation in collaboration with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), warrants for the arrest of the suspects were obtained and executed.
Between 28 and 29 January 2024, the accused were successfully traced and apprehended in various areas around Lebowakgomo.
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They were brought before the court and remanded in custody until Monday, 05 February 2024, when a bail application will be considered.
The Hawks continue their search for the outstanding suspects, including the suspected mastermind, as they aim to bring all those involved in the alleged fraud to justice.
