The 44-year-old suspect, Congolese national Joseph Hassan Yai, is scheduled to appear before the Makhado Magistrate’s Court, after being arrested on fraud and theft charges.
Yai appeared before a Limpopo court and was remanded in custody until Wednesday to arrange an interpreter and legal representation.
“The suspect and his accomplice allegedly defrauded a 54-year-old woman out of a large sum of money during May 2023. The victim was an employee of the Limpopo (South African Police Service) SAPS,” Limpopo Provincial Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela said. Ledwaba.
“The suspect (Yai) allegedly convinced her to resign from work and invest her paid money in a business venture. She eventually resigned and after receiving the lump sum, she allegedly withdrew the sum of R500,000 and gave it to the suspect who is currently on the run.
The unsuspecting woman was also persuaded to transfer another sum of money to Yaye’s bank account.
Upon noticing the men had disappeared with her money, the former SAPS employee reported the incident to the police in July 2023.
A case of fraud and theft was opened for investigation.
“Intensive police investigations led to the arrest of the suspect on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at the Jane Force Police District,” Ledwaba said.
“Anyone with information on the remaining suspect should contact Investigating Officer Corlett Baloyi on 0721605396, the Crime Stoppers number on 0860010111, the nearest police station or the My SAPS app.” Islam Online
