Joburg court releases man arrested for allegedly scamming R2 million from unsuspecting woman! The Alexandra Regional Magistrate’s Court in Johannesburg has granted bail to Lars Niehaus, a 64-year-old man arrested in connection with a case involving theft, fraud, and money laundering.
Niehaus, who is the third suspect in this investigation, faces charges related to a scam in which a woman was deceived out of R2 million. The court released Niehaus on R50,000 bail, and his case has been postponed to November 14.
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme
According to Warrant Officer Thatohatsi Mavimbela, spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, the alleged fraud scheme began in January 2022.
A man posing as a prominent businessman from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) approached the woman in a shopping mall, presenting her with a business opportunity in the mining sector. The scheme centered around coltan mining—a mineral highly valued in electronics manufacturing.
The “businessman” claimed that an investment in this mining venture would yield high returns and that all necessary permits and licenses would be provided by a company based in the DRC. Despite raising initial concerns about the legitimacy of the license, the woman was reassured that all documentation was in order and that her investment would be secure.
Convincing the Victim to Invest
Further meetings were held with additional individuals involved in the scheme, during which the victim was asked to make multiple payments.
These payments were reportedly for various purposes, including trips to the DRC to meet with a minister of mining and to Dubai to connect with potential buyers. The victim complied with these requests and ultimately transferred funds into a business account registered as Highgate Lease and Trading (PTY) LTD, which authorities identified as belonging to Niehaus.
The woman’s trust in the promises made by the conspirators, coupled with the presented business opportunity, resulted in her losing R2 million. Investigators believe that the funds were moved through several accounts to disguise their origin, an action central to the money laundering charges involved in this case.
Arrests Made and Details of the Investigation
The case was officially reported to authorities in August 2022, and it was assigned to the Hawks’ serious commercial crime investigation unit.
Since then, two other individuals, Lindiwe Makelele and Zingah Mpoyi, have been arrested for their alleged roles in the scam. Makelele was arrested in March 2024 and was granted bail of R2,000 by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, while Mpoyi, arrested in April 2024, was released on R5,000 bail. Both are accused of using their accounts to launder portions of the stolen funds.
Last Thursday, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) received information about Niehaus’s imminent arrival at OR Tambo International Airport. On Friday, November 1, 2024, the Hawks executed an arrest warrant for Niehaus upon his arrival in South Africa.
He made his first court appearance on Monday, November 4, with a formal bail application hearing on Tuesday, which resulted in his release on R50,000 bail.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
Niehaus’s bail has allowed him temporary release, with his next court appearance scheduled for November 14. The court has not yet detailed all the charges he will face, but the accusations of theft, fraud, and money laundering carry serious legal consequences.
As the investigation progresses, additional charges or new developments may arise based on the findings of the Hawks and the movement of funds within the accounts linked to the alleged crime.
The Hawks’ Focus on Serious Commercial Crime
The Hawks’ involvement highlights the severity of this case and their focus on dismantling organized crime networks. Established to tackle priority crimes, the Hawks’ serious commercial crime investigation team has been actively pursuing cases involving financial fraud, money laundering, and theft, all of which undermine the economy and impact unsuspecting individuals.
The unit’s proactive approach is evident in their response to this case, having identified and arrested multiple suspects across a lengthy investigation period.
Through collaborative efforts with SAPS and other law enforcement agencies, the Hawks aim to bring justice for the victim and dismantle the operation behind this and similar fraudulent schemes.
Advice to the Public
The case underscores the importance of vigilance when approached with unsolicited investment opportunities, particularly those that promise high returns with minimal risk.
Authorities advise that anyone approached for similar investment offers should independently verify the legitimacy of the companies and licenses involved and consult legal and financial professionals if necessary.
While Niehaus’s release on bail allows him temporary freedom, the legal process is ongoing, and he, along with the other suspects, faces serious charges with potential long-term implications.
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