AN alleged fraudster, accused of pocketing over R60-million with a bogus ‘transport business opportunity’ appeared in the Durban Commercial Crimes Court on Monday.
Terrance Govender (33) also known as ‘Titus’ is charged with 67 counts of fraud, after allegedly baiting investors with promises of passive monthly income of as much as R80 000, through ‘excellent, well serviced and maintained trucks with transport hire agreements’.
The fraudulent get-rich-quick scheme was advertised on Gumtree and pulled in unsuspecting investors countrywide.
Govender operated from several locations, including a business premises in Alton and a number of complainants are Richards Bay residents.
In loan agreements with investors, his businesses were described as T.A.S.A limited, TTT Trucks and Autoworx and ‘streetcar racing’ modification and fitment business.
Govender boasted helping investors become transporters or truckers in ‘three simple steps’.
The elaborate scheme promised investors assistance in the supply of truck horses ‘invoiced, licensed and registered to the buyer’, signing of transport hire agreements ‘legally drawn up by attorneys and ‘genuine guarantees, sureties and monthly payment’.
He was arrested by Richards Bay detectives, W/O Reddy and W/O Gouden in May last year, when he fled from Richards Bay to Durban to avoid arrest.
Govender, who remains in custody, was transported to court by W/O Gouden, who is still wrapping up the investigation.
More charges are expected to be added as the forensic audit continuous.
The accused applied for a legal aid attorney, who has since been appointed by the court.
The final charge sheet will only be formulated once the investigation has been concluded.
The case has been remanded until 13 December for outstanding documentation.
Anybody with further information, is requested to contact W/O Gouden on 083 6606932.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
