A call from a prisoner impersonating a Hawks investigator caused an actual loss of R41 760 to a female who cannot be named for safety reasons.

According to a media statement issued by the Hawks, the victim was arrested for murder that was reported in 2006, but all charges relating to the murder case were withdrawn.

Sixteen years later, however, the victim received a call from a bogus Hawks-based Captain Monama in September 2022 who alleged that the case was reopened, and a warrant of arrest was issued for her.

The man demanded R25 000 from the victim to avoid arrest and promised to destroy evidence against her. The victim fell into the trap and paid the money in two different instalments.

Two months later, the victim received a follow-up call from the same person and same number.

She was informed that their agreement did not go well as the bogus police officer’s colleague, ‘Detective Wessels’ found out she was not yet arrested.

The man from the prison cell, Bonginkosi Masango, allegedly demanded extra money to placate the so-called detective Wessels.

In 2024, the victim registered a case docket at Siyabuswa SAPS.

The matter was referred to the Hawks Middelburg-based Serious Corruption Investigation.

The team’s hard work linked Masango after his 28-year-old cousin Koosnight Mahlangu’s arrest on Wednesday, September 3.

It was revealed through investigation that Bonginkosi Masango is currently serving 16 years prison term after he was found guilty of rape on a 2015 case.

Masango (29) and Mahlangu appeared before Mdutjane Magistrate’s Court (Siyabuswa) today (Thursday).

Mahlangu was released on R1 000 bail and Masango was remanded in custody. The court ordered both Masango and Mahlangu to appear before Mdutjana Regional Court on October 6.