Nine accused, Bernarto Mashava (22), Oshvaldo Mashayela (25), Manual Mathonzi (22),Lourense Zitha (30), Janeoro Mbalane (41), Erick Thulani Phiri (32), Samuel Mashaba (28), Lourence Mbiza (45) and Wandile Chongo (24) were remanded in custody by the Louw`s Creek periodical court on Thursday, 25 April 2024, after they were arrested by the Hawks Nelspruit based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, Kaapmuiden Detectives and FNB forensic investigators, on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, along the N4 towards Nkomazi toll gate.
The arrest followed after several complaints were received regarding possible fraud that is being committed by persons around Nkomazi Toll Plaza by means of using stolen cards to assist motorist or trucks to pay toll fees at the toll gate and then receiving half of the fee that is requested for themselves.
The Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation based in Nelspruit initiated an operation to address the complaint that was received from different stakeholders. The Hawks operationalised the information and search and seizure warrant was authorised and executed on Thursday.
Unconventional methods were employed and the suspects were arrested after transactions. They were found in possession of various FNB and Nedbank debit bank cards and toll slips transacted at the toll gate. The suspects were arrested, detained and charged for fraud, possession of cloned and stolen bank cards and Cybercrime Act.
They appeared at the Louw’s Creek Periodical Court on Thursday and remanded in custody. The case was postponed to Thursday, 02 May 2024. The accused will apply for bail. Investigation continues.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks Major General Gerber applauded the multidisciplinary team for the successful operation. The General urged the public to stay away from fraudulent activities, as the Hawks we will act against perpetrators and ensure that they are dealt with, with the full might of the law.
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