KEY POINTS
- Hawks arrested a third suspect in the R4 million ($216,977) estate fraud case.
- Investigators allege fraudulent claims were used to divert millions.
- The case is still under investigation, with more arrests possible.
The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team has arrested a third suspect in connection with a fraudulent scheme involving the estate of the late Mr. JMJ Steyn.
Following a detailed investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) in collaboration with Vusela Security, authorities took the 29-year-old suspect into custody in Bellville on Monday, February 23, 2025.
Hawks spokesperson Lt. Col. Siyabulela Vukubi confirmed that they believe the suspect received payments from Steyn’s estate through fraudulent means.
Investigators allege that the primary accused in the case, Keshika Naidoo, submitted fake documents to Absa Investment Management Services.
These documents falsely claimed that the lawful executor had granted power of attorney to Naidoo.
Millions diverted through fraudulent bank accounts
According to the State, the law firm Jadoo and Associates submitted a fraudulent claim on Steyn’s estate, amounting to nearly R4 million ($216,977).
“Absa Investment Management Services was then requested to transfer R3.5 million into a fraudulent bank account created for the estate,” Vukubi stated.
The newly arrested suspect is the third person implicated in the case. The first suspect, Naidoo, was arrested in October 2024 and is currently out on bail.
Authorities arrested the second accused, Wandile Hlongwana, on January 16, 2025, and he remains in custody. They believe payments from Steyn’s estate were funneled into Hlongwana’s company as part of the fraudulent operation.
Investigators have uncovered what appears to be a sophisticated financial crime involving multiple individuals.
Officials are actively tracing all financial transactions linked to the fraudulent claims. They are determined to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Legal proceedings and further investigations
Following her arrest, the third suspect appeared at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
According to IOL, she is expected to be transported to Cape Town this week, where further legal proceedings will take place. Both Naidoo and Hlongwana are due to return to court on April 1, 2025.
The authorities have stated that investigators continue active work on the case. “We are committed to following all leads and ensuring justice is served,” Vukubi said.
Estate fraud risks have become evident after this specific case. The situation reveals the necessity for enhanced financial control in managing deceased estates.
Law enforcement agencies encourage individuals to report suspicious financial activities related to estate administration.
