The Bedfordview SAPS station commander, Colonel Wellington Mathiane, welcomed the successful conviction and sentencing of a 41-year-old woman who was found guilty of fraud and forgery.

Spokesperson Sergeant Lillian Modiga said the conviction follows an incident that occurred on January 6 this year, at about 14:50 at a retail store in Eastgate Mall, Bedfordview.

“The accused fraudulently purchased two designer fragrances valued at R7 370 using a retail store’s account that did not belong to her,” Modiga reported.

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She added that following verification by the retail store’s head office, it was established that the account had been fraudulently used. The accused was found in possession of a South African Smart ID card belonging to another person and was immediately arrested.

The investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Khanyisile Annatolia Hlongwane, successfully opposed bail and the accused remained in custody throughout the court proceedings.

Modiga said that on July 7, Bernardine Linda Strydom was convicted on charges of fraud and forgery. The court took both counts together for sentencing and imposed a sentence of three years’ direct imprisonment.

Modiga said that in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act 60 of 2000), no order was made.

She added, “The SAPS commends the investigating officer, the complainant, and all role players whose dedication and professionalism contributed to the successful prosecution. SAPS remains committed to combating fraud and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.”