By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
A former Constable at Skukuza police station, Thembi Aretha Mhlanga(47), was released on R1000 bail after appearing at the Kabokweni Magistrate’s Court facing a charge of fraud.
Mhlanga was arrested alongside her alleged accomplice, Sarel Sithole(37), on Monday 6 January 2025 after they were accused of defrauding a 71 year-old woman of her pension money to the amount of R1,700 at Dayizenza Complex in Masoyi.
Sithole was remanded in custody due to pending cases.
According to a statement by police spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, the victim was reportedly approached by two females who offered to assist her as she was about to withdraw her pension money at an ATM.
“ The suspects claimed that there was no network at the ATM and adviced her to attempt to withdraw at a nearby supermarket. Upon arriving at the supermarket, the victim discovered that her bank had been swapped,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The victim reportedly went to the Hazyview offices to report the incident immediately where she realised that an amount of R1,700 of her money was already withdrawn from her account.
Lt-Col said the matter was reported to the police and an investigation was carried out, leading to the two suspects being traced and apprehended.
Mpumalanga Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the police are ready to arrest law breakers irrespective of their status in society. He furthermore warned members of the public to be wary of scammers.
The next court appearance for the duo is scheduled for 15 January 2025 at Masoyi Periodical Court.
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