Former resident facing arrest in nationwide fraud and theft probes
Mike Bolhuis and his crime-fighting team of Specialised Security Services have launched a manhunt for former Middelburg resident Marthinus Pretorius “Klein Boerie” Strydom in connection with an alleged countrywide web of fraud and theft.
Various arrest warrants have been issued for Strydom’s apprehension, with active warrants for his arrest in Linden and Redelinghuys in the Western Cape.
Johan Prinsloo from Specialised Security Services told the Middelburg Observer that Strydom approached his victims with promises of diesel at discount prices.
He would allegedly invoice the client and demand payment before delivery, with Strydom allegedly pocketing the money without delivering the fuel.
Locally, Strydom approached the family of Mr Alec Politis, the late owner of Rembrandt Cafe, following his January 2021 passing, with an offer to buy the cafe.
Strydom allegedly sold everything in the cafe while still accepting deliveries like milk from Clover without settling the accounts.
Until now, the Politis family have not received a cent from Strydom, while they also had to settle supplier accounts allegedly racked up by Strydom.
“He destroyed what Mr Politis built up in 37 years within five weeks,” a family member told the Middelburg Observer.
Strydom faces charges in Limpopo, North West, Mpumalanga, the Free State and the Western Cape.
Persons who might know where Strydom is currently hiding should phone Specialised Security Services on 072 869 2504.
