FRAUD SUSPECT APPEARS IN COURT FOR ALLEGEDLY SELLING FAKE JOBS, HOUSES, AND CERTIFICATES ONLINE
POLOKWANE – A 33-year-old male suspect, Tetelo Kgwedi, appeared before the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court in the Sekhukhune District on Thursday, 17 July 2025, facing a charge of fraud in connection with an elaborate online scam. The matter has been postponed to 24 July 2025 for a formal bail application.
Kgwedi was arrested on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, during a well-coordinated operation by the Tubatse Tracing Team. His arrest followed intelligence received regarding an individual in the Praktiseer area who was allegedly advertising fake job opportunities on Facebook and demanding payment from unsuspecting victims after requesting their CVs.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspect impersonated senior officials, including Human Resources personnel from reputable companies and various mining entities. He also fraudulently posed as a senior official in the Limpopo Department , purportedly selling fake RDP houses.
Additionally, the suspect is alleged to have sold a variaty of counterfeit documents such as certificates, to job seekers desperate to secure employment.
Evidence linking the suspect to multiple fraudulent activities was discovered during a search at his residence. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be laid.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has praised the swift action by the team and urged the public to remain vigilant.
“This arrest is a significant step in our efforts to dismantle online fraud syndicates that target vulnerable citizens. We appeal to the public to always verify the authenticity of job offers and government-related services before making any form of payment,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
Members of the public who believe they may have fallen victim to this scam are encouraged to report to their nearest police station.
