The victim received a phone call purported to be from the bank, offering help with his banking profile, but he later discovered that R767,400 had been fraudulently transferred out of his account.
Image: File
The Limpopo provincial Commercial Crime Unit has arrested four men, aged between 28 and 43, for fraud and money laundering amounting to R767,400.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the arrests were carried out on Wednesday, in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, following an intensive investigation.
“According to reports, in October 2022, the victim received a phone call from an individual posing as a representative of a banking institution in Giyani, offering assistance with his banking profile. The victim later discovered that a total of R767,400 had been fraudulently transferred from his account and immediately withdrawn,” said Ledwaba.
Investigations by the police revealed that the stolen funds were initially transferred into a single account, before the stolen money was distributed across four different account holders.
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Warrants of arrest were issued, leading to the apprehension of the four suspects.
The arrested individuals, aged 28, 31, 36, and 43, are on Thursday scheduled to appear before the Giyani Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo on charges including fraud, money laundering, and possession of proceeds from unlawful activities.
Meanwhile, Limpopo provincial commissioner of police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has commended the investigation team for their swift and diligent efforts in bringing the suspects to justice.
“Fraud and money laundering have a devastating impact on individuals and businesses. We urge the public to remain vigilant against banking scams and to report any suspicious activities to the police,” said Hadebe.
Provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
Image: SAPS
As investigations continue, police said more arrests are imminent.
“Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact Detective Constable Marcus Khosa at 066 239 3255, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, visit their nearest police station, or use the MySAPSApp,” the police appealed.
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jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL
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