A 29-year-old woman from Brits was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment on Monday after being found guilty of defrauding people out of millions in an imported car scam. Nachy Britz received 15 years of direct imprisonment from the Brits Magistrate’s Court after being convicted on two counts of fraud.

“Between 2016 and 2018, Britz defrauded unsuspecting victims by presenting herself as a legitimate businesswoman importing luxury vehicles from America at reasonable prices. One victim paid her over R2.9m to import Ford Mustangs and Harley Davidson motorcycles. Another victim paid over R800 000 for vehicle imports,” says North West Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula.

The investigation revealed that Britz used various email accounts to communicate with victims, providing updates on the supposed vehicle importations. After failing to deliver the vehicles, Britz was confronted by victims who demanded refunds. “Britz managed to repay some complainants who have since dropped their charges. However, she still owes two victims R2.9m and R800 000, respectively,” adds Mathebula.

The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit handled the case, leading to Britz’s arrest and prosecution.

After multiple court appearances, she received a 15-year sentence for each charge, with the court ordering the sentences to run concurrently. Britz will effectively serve a 15-year prison term.