According to the police spokesperson in Giyani, Sgt Ridgewell Rikhotso, the latest victim is one of the local traditional leaders in the area. The victim was apparently called by an unknown person claiming to be the MEC for CoGHSTA, Basikopo Makamu, who was looking to fund the preparation of their upcoming royal family event. The person requested a small portion of cash as a kickback for what was to come as a donation for their event.

Convinced that it was the MEC for CoGHSTA on the other end of the call, the headman immediately transferred a large sum of money to this person’s account. However, the matter took another twist when he called later to find out how the logistical arrangements for the event were progressing. He found that the number that he used to communicate with the caller was no longer in use,” said Rikhotso.

Also read: Three suspects arrested in the R81 courier robbery

Rikhotso said that on Friday they had a similar incident where one of the residents in Giyani was robbed of R7 000 after receiving a call from an unknown person claiming to be an employee in one of the hardware stores in Giyani. The person told the victim to hand him R7000 so he could get him the building material he needed to finish the construction. “After the exchange, the person disappeared. We want to warn everybody to be on the lookout for such fraudsters.

“The police are currently investigating both cases and anyone with information is requested to contact the police in Giyani on 073 637 8653,” he said. Meanwhile, the MEC for CoGHSTA released a statement warning traditional leaders to be vigilant of fraudsters who were impersonating him and demanding money. “I want to urge our people, particularly those in our traditional communities, to take heed of this warning and not fall victim to these criminals. I distance myself and COGHSTA from these fraudulent acts and support our law enforcement authorities in bringing these criminals to book,” said