POLOKWANE – The Limpopo Hawks have arrested members of an alleged syndicate, which defrauded a vehicle dealership in the city of more than R8 million.
It is alleged the syndicate members, aged between 21 and 60, doctored bank statements, pay slips as well as false proofs with the assistance of a salesperson at the dealership to secure finance for top of the range vehicles.
The fraudulent activities came to a head in September when a Johannesburg-based bank approached the Hawks for assistance after their forensic investigation department identified a syndicate operating in Polokwane.
The multi-agency operation, spanning three days, kicked off last Wednesday until Friday, resulting in the 14 arrests and the recovery of more than 14 vehicles, which are currently being stored at a police vehicle pound.
Investigations continue to recover six other vehicles and more arrests are expected.
The suspects have since appeared in the Polokwane magistrate’s court and were granted R1 000 bail each.
They are expected back in court on 3 December on fraud charges.
