Category: Crime & Corruption News

With the start of the year being financially demanding, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development has encouraged consumers, who will be borrowing money from credit providers, to be wise and ensure that credit providers do not violate their rights.

This as some consumers could be facing financial challenges to the extent that they might need to apply for credit to meet their financial obligations such as school fees, school uniforms, transport and rent, among others.

Consumers have been cautioned against using unregistered credit providers such as ‘Abomashonisa’ that overcharge interest, and take consumers’ identity documents and their Social African Security Agency (SASSA) cards to enforce payment.

“This is unfair business practice. Sometimes, when consumers’ credit applications decline, consumers resort to borrowing from Abomashonisa.  However, this does not help the consumer because of the exorbitant interest rates that are charged by these unregistered credit providers.

“If your application is declined by all registered credit providers, it means that you have a bigger financial problem than you realise. Rather seek assistance by negotiating for lower instalments with your current credit providers, paying off and closing some accounts than accessing more credit through unregistered credit providers,” Gauteng Department of Economic Development Director for Education, Awareness and Stakeholder Relations Milly Viljoen said.

According to the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), consumers have a right to receive information in plain and understandable language.

“Consumers should read and understand the terms and conditions, and further ask questions if they seek clarity. This will allow them to understand Credit Life Insurance, which can be a lifesaver when they are unable to repay the debt due to loss of income, unemployment, disability, etc,” Viljoen said.

Consumers are urged to  consider the following tips:

• Borrow only when it is necessary.  Avoid using credit for consumables such as groceries.
• Verify the authenticity of credit providers, even the ones that are advertising on social media, by contacting the National Credit Regulator first before applying for credit. Unregistered credit providers will make you more financially constrained by overcharging interest.
• Understand the additional cost that comes with credit. The cost of credit includes interest rates, once-off initiation fees, monthly service fees, credit life insurance, etc. Consumers should read and understand the pre-agreement statement and quotation which will include all the costs involved.
• Do not sign immediately when applying for credit. The pre-agreement or quotation has five (5) days cooling period. Sign ONLY when you understand the terms and conditions.
• Do not sign a blank credit agreement/document.  Read, understand, and ask relevant questions if you seek clarity. Sign ONLY when satisfied with the terms and conditions.
• Check your credit report often- You are entitled to a free credit report once a year. You have the right to dispute any information that is wrongfully written on your credit profile.
• Do not agree to pay an ‘upfront fee’ when applying for credit. Fake credit providers may force you to pay a fee before granting you credit.

The Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs works with different stakeholders in consumer protection to ensure that consumer rights are protected.

Thus, consumers should contact the National Credit Regulator on 0860 627 627 or e-mail complaints@ncr.org.za to report unregistered credit providers or any credit provider that violates their consumer rights in the credit industry.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) on Thursday arrested a 25-year-old woman in Houghton for possession of child pornography and money laundering.

The arrest of the woman, a web designer by profession, follows the takedown of her 35-year-old boyfriend, who was apprehended last week during a joint operation conducted by the national and Gauteng provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) Units in Midrand.

An intensive investigation by the SECI Units uncovered evidence linking the woman to criminal activities, including the possession of an estimated 10 million child pornography images and videos.

These materials were discovered on various electronic devices seized during an operation last Friday.

During the arrest of the boyfriend, the SAPS team found the child pornography images and videos on various electronic devices.

The suspect is set to appear before the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

Police investigations into the matter are ongoing.

The racketeering, trafficking in persons, rape, and sexual assault case against controversial televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused, Lusanda Solani and Zikiswa Sitho, has been adjourned to April for judgement.

Judgement is expected to be delivered nearly eight years after the initial arrest of the accused.

According to Eastern Cape National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, Omotoso and his two South African co-accused are facing at least 32 counts in the court.

“It is alleged that Omotoso, who was addressed as ‘the man of God’, was the leader of the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church and his co-accused were his assistants. JDI had major branches in South Africa, Nigeria, and Israel, with Durban being its headquarters in the country.

“The complainants were either congregants, employees or persons selected to take part in the activities of the church when they were recruited under the pretext that they would benefit spiritually or improve the quality of their lives. Omotoso allegedly directly or indirectly through his co-accused, paid and arranged for the complainants to travel to his hotel, Durban, Israel, or Nigeria,” Tyali said.

Once at the destination, Tyali explained, the complainants were allegedly instructed to switch off their phones and “told not to contact male companions and were to further abide by his instructions”.

“The complainants and other female church members were allegedly kept in one room where they also slept. Omotoso would allegedly select one of the complainants to go to his private bedroom where he raped or sexually assaulted them,” he added.

Wheels of justice

Omotoso has tried on several occasions to have the case either dismissed or declared a mistrial – causing delays in the carriage of justice.

“The judgement will mark a remarkable milestone the case that has been marred by delays for almost eight years since the arrest of the trio.

“It follows a decision on previous applications by the televangelist for five special entries for a mistrial. Including an application made on 16 January 2024, where the defence made an application for the judge to reconsider her previous judgment on the application for discharge according to Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act.

“Judge Irma Schoeman had previously dismissed their application for discharge, and the state was ready to proceed with the remaining proceedings in the trial, meaning that the accused must present their case and they will be subject to cross-examination by the state,” Tyali said.

The NPA spokesperson acknowledged that the delays led to some of the complainants choosing to withdraw from the case.

“The numerous delays in the trial since the arrest of the Nigerian national, Omotoso, in April 2017, caused some witnesses to no longer want to proceed with giving evidence as they indicated they have since moved on with their lives and are not interested in reliving their experiences in court.

“That has led to the reduction of the charges from 63,” he said.

Despite this, the prosecution remained determined to see the case to finalisation.

“The state remains committed to ensuring that this case is finalised as soon as possible so that justice is served for the victims and believes that even on this case it has presented enough evidence to for the accused persons to be found guilty,” Tyali said.

The three accused are expected back in court for judgement on 2 April.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has raised serious concerns about the relentless wave of infrastructure destruction, including the theft of aluminum and cables, the vandalism of traffic lights and railway lines, and the destruction of pylons.

In a recent incident, the department condemned the brazen actions of armed criminals who targeted government properties to steal steel, aluminum, and other valuable materials.

Late last night, security personnel at Public Works House, located in the Central Business District (CBD) of Pretoria, thwarted an attempted robbery by a group of armed intruders. The suspects were attempting to steal aluminum and steel infrastructure, including furniture, from the government premises.

The confrontation resulted in two suspects being shot after the group, armed with dangerous weapons, forcibly infiltrated the guarded property. The attackers are believed to be part of a notorious syndicate involved in the vandalism and theft of metals for sale in the scrap metal market.

Some of the suspects reportedly carried machetes (commonly referred to as pangas) to intimidate and attack security guards. Despite the violent encounter, the security team responded swiftly, wounding two intruders while others managed to escape.

“There have been numerous incidents of vandalism reported at various properties within the CBD area of Tshwane, with Public Works House being a frequent target,” the department stated. It added that fencing had also been repeatedly dismantled and stolen from government properties.

The department expressed concern that some of these crimes may be linked to individuals addicted to substances like nyaope, who sell stolen materials to scrap metal dealers for quick cash.

“The flourishing scrap metal industry and its apparent link to stolen materials are having a devastating impact on critical infrastructure and the broader economy,” the department warned.

The injured suspects were transported to a hospital, while some of the security personnel involved in the incident have been questioned as part of an ongoing police investigation.

“As investigations continue, security measures will be heightened to protect all public assets which must be used for public good,”  the statement concluded.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Mpumalanga has announced the automatic cancellation of all fraudulent R370 COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant payments.

The SRD grant is administered in terms of app-section 32 of the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (Act No. 13 of 2004) and is implemented with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance. The grant is meant for South African citizens, refugees, asylum seekers and special permit holders, who are between the ages of 18 and 60 years, who have insufficient means, who do not receive social grants on behalf of themselves, or who are not contributing to or eligible for Unemployment Insurance Fund payment, and have no financial support from any other source.

In a statement on Monday, the agency informed all beneficiaries that it is mandated to cancel all fraudulent grant payments, while emphasising its commitment to combatting fraud and ensuring that grants are paid to the rightful beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries, whose grants are cancelled due to suspected fraud, are allowed to reapply.

“SASSSA implemented this activity to ensure that the Agency pays social grants to the right people and avoid fraud.

“The agency is encouraging people to take responsibility to make sure that their identity numbers are not utilised for fraudulent activities. SASSA beneficiaries must ensure that they do not share their identity numbers with strangers to avoid becoming aiding fraudsters,” the Agency said.

To manage these cases effectively, SASSA has deployed a team of well-trained officials assigned to deal with COVID-19 SRD grant cases.

Beneficiaries, who suspect fraudulent activity involving their grants, are encouraged to report it immediately via SASSA’s toll-free hotline or WhatsApp service.

“Beneficiaries are encouraged to note that when they check their status and find out that it states “referred” it means that the SASSA system is suspecting fraudulent activity therefore the beneficiary must contact SASSA immediately to resolve the case,” the Agency said.

SASSA also warned beneficiaries not to keep changing their banking details and contact numbers because those processes delay the payment processes.

For further assistance or information, beneficiaries can contact SASSA toll-free on 0800 60 10 11, or call 013 754 9428/9363 during working hours, Monday to Friday. WhatsApp inquiries can be directed to 082 046 8553.

North West Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, has ordered maximum resources to be mobilised in finding an alleged Stilfontein mining kingpin.

This comes after James Neo Tshoaeli, known as “Tiger”, allegedly escaped from the police custody, after resurfacing from the mine shaft 11 at Stilfontein, last week.

In a statement issued on Monday, Asaneng said extensive investigations and tracing operations were underway to find the officials who aided Tiger’s escape between shaft 11 and the Stilfontein police holding cells.

“According to records, Tiger was never booked into various other stations where some illegal miners are being kept. Tiger is also not admitted at a local hospital for further medical care,” Asaneng said.

The alleged kingpin and ringleader is a Lesotho national and according to records, his name is James Neo Tshoaeli but is commonly known as Tiger.

According to the Acting Commissioner, Tiger is being fingered in several statements as one of the ring leaders who controlled operations underground.

“He is also being accused by some illegal miners who resurfaced underground as being allegedly responsible for some deaths, assault, and torture that is alleged to have taken place according to videos in police possession. He is also alleged to have hoarded and kept food away from other illegal miners,” Asaneng said.

Asaneng has expressed disappointment in what he terms as an “embarrassment to the Vala Umgodi operation that has been running from December 2023”.

He warned that heads would roll once they find the officials that aided the kingpin to escape from police custody.

“Tiger is a fugitive of justice and is considered dangerous. Members of the public are advised to share any information pertaining to his whereabouts to the Stilfontein Police Station,” Asaneng said.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has warned the public to be aware of a fake traffic officer job learnership circulating on social media site, TikTok.

The RTMC said the advert, inviting individuals to apply for a Traffic Officer Learnership, is “entirely fake and has not been published by the corporation”.

“The RTMC condemns, in the strongest possible terms, individuals who prey on the public by spreading false information and exploiting job seekers in an attempt to solicit bribes or other personal gains.

“These unethical and criminal activities not only tarnish the image of genuine organisations but also cause financial and emotional harm to innocent members of our society.

“We wish to emphasise that all RTMC job opportunities, including learnerships and internships, are advertised on the official RTMC website www.rtmc.co.za. and on reputable publications. The corporation does not charge any fees or require any payments for applications or interviews,” the corporation said in a statement.

The public is urged to verify any RTMC job related information at www.rtmc.co.za or by email at info@rtmc.co.za or by calling 0861 400 800.

“If you encounter any suspicious job adverts or are approached with demands for payment in exchange for employment, please contact the RTMC to assist in combating this fraudulent activity.

“The RTMC remains committed to promoting integrity, transparency, and fair opportunities for all South Africans. The RTMC further denounces those who seek to exploit the vulnerabilities of others,” the statement concluded.

The Border Management Authority (BMA) has successfully disrupted another human and child smuggling operation, demonstrating its capability to combat organised crime at ports of entry and border law enforcement areas.

On Monday afternoon, a South African taxi driver was apprehended at the Beitbridge border while attempting to smuggle 25 undocumented foreign nationals into the country.

Among them were 20 children between the ages of five and 14. The children were being unlawfully transported under dangerous and inhumane conditions.

The vehicle used in the operation was immediately impounded. The driver has been charged and is in police custody. A conveyance fine of R375 000 has been issued, in accordance with the Immigration Act.

Following standard protocols, the children were handed over to the Zimbabwean child welfare authorities to ensure their safety and care while investigations continue.

Acting Commissioner of the BMA, Jane Thupana, commended the swift action by the officers involved.

“This operation highlights the BMA’s resolve to disrupt criminal networks that exploit vulnerable individuals, particularly children.

“The trafficking and smuggling of people undermine human dignity and border security, and the BMA remains vigilant in its efforts to safeguard South Africa’s ports of entry, and protect those at risk,” she said.

The BMA continues to work closely with other law enforcement authorities to combat illegal activities.

The public is urged to report any suspicious activities related to human trafficking and smuggling to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and victims are protected.

The BMA’s toll-free hotline number is 0801 229019.

Police have in the past week rescued two kidnapped businessmen, arrested seven kidnappers and seized firearms, cell phones and vehicles used in the commission of the crimes.

On Saturday, a Chinese businessman was hijacked and kidnapped in Springs, Ekurhuleni.

Within 24 hours, a multi-disciplinary team operationalised intelligence, which led them to the location of the kidnappers.

The team intercepted the kidnappers’ vehicle, an Audi A3, at an intersection in Lenasia and arrested two suspects on Sunday.

The team then proceeded to an address in Meriting, where they arrested one more kidnapper and rescued the businessman.

In an unrelated incident, on 1 December 2024, another businessman was hijacked and kidnapped in Wierdabrug, Tshwane.

The victim’s vehicle was later recovered in the area of Heuweloord.

Intelligence led a multi-disciplinary team to recover the kidnappers’ vehicle, a Jeep, which was left abandoned in a garage in Nellmapius, Tshwane.

The team followed up on a lead, which led them to an address in Mamelodi, where they arrested four suspects and rescued two kidnapped victims. Firearms, cell phones, a Jeep SRT8 and a Hyundai Getz were seized.

Investigations in both these cases are still ongoing.

“These operations would not have been successful without the assistance of other law enforcement agencies including private security,” said the South African Police Service in a statement.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has commended members of various law enforcement agencies in the province for intercepting pure cocaine worth R80 million, packed inside a shipping container at the Durban Harbour.

According to a police report, information was received by the police about a vessel which left Brazil at the beginning of November carrying pure cocaine that was disguised as kidney beans.

The vessel, which came to South Africa via another country, was monitored until Saturday when it docked at the Durban Harbour. The identified container was taken to a warehouse on South Coast Road in the Bluff area for a proper search.

During the search, eight bags of crushed pure cocaine were found and according to the documentation, the shipment was destined for Johannesburg.

Ntuli said increased police surveillance at targeted crime hot spot areas is yielding positive results, as law enforcement intelligence operations continue to thwart criminal activity in all the corners of the province.

“We commend the excellent work being done by members of various law enforcement agencies to ensure that we close ranks. We are sending a strong message to all criminal syndicates that we are on high alert, we have adopted a zero-tolerance stance against all criminal activity,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli also acknowledged the Border Management Authority (BMA) effort, who are working around the clock to tighten security measures at all ports of entry and borders of the province.

He said the provincial government and law enforcement agencies under the banner of the Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster has developed an integrated multi-disciplinary crime prevention plan during the festive season to ensure that the province remains the destination of choice for holiday makers and tourists to create a safe environment conducive for the growth of business, and to boost investor confidence.

The Premier has reassured the people of KwaZulu-Natal that targeted intelligence driven operations will be affected throughout the festive season and beyond.

“Our provincial government has called for augmented numbers of police deployed during this period especially at identified crime hot spots like the Durban harbour. We are going to clamp down on all crime elements in our province,” the Premier said.

Ntuli encouraged the community members to continue coming forward with critical information to assist law enforcement to crack down on criminal activity in our province.