R3 MILLION TO BE REPAID TO A CYBER SCAM VICTIM
The NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU), has obtained a forfeiture order in the High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division, sitting in East London for R3 million, which will be reimbursed to the victim of a scam in line with restorative justice. The order was granted by Justice Phillip Zilwa, against the funds on the basis that they are proceeds of unlawful activities. The forfeiture order stems from a criminal cyber scam docket that was opened by the owner of an East London Battery Centre. The company was informed via email on 27 March 2023, that their supplier’s banking details have changed.
As a result, a payment was made into the new bank account on 26 April 2023. The fraud came to light on 11 May 2023, after the business was informed by their correct supplier that their payment was outstanding. After swift action by the police, AFU investigator, and Finance Intelligence Centre, the amount of R3 million was traced, and the AFU office subsequently obtained a preservation order on 23 May 2023. After obtaining the forfeiture order on 31 July 2023, the AFU investigator and victim were contacted by the interested party, the suspected fraudster, with requests to ‘meet’ regarding the unblocking of the account. These communications were reported to the Directorate Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks) for further investigations.
