A former teacher in KZN conned for R1.8 million in ‘cleansing water’ scam

Pinetwon police have arrested three suspects between the ages of 28 and 32 for theft of R1.8m, Highway Mail reports.

According to Pinetown Cluster communications officer, Capt Bongumusa Manqele, the trio was arrested following an investigation into a case which was opened in January 2018.

The complainant, a woman (57) who used to work for the Department of Education as a teacher was conned out of R1.8m by the men who first asked her to pay an amount of R20 000 for cleansing water for her and her boyfriend so that they can get married, said Manqele.

“She told them she didn’t have R20 000 at the time but she had her pensions within the Department of Education. In May 2018 her boyfriend advised her to resign so that they can start a business. She resigned and when she received her pension pay-out she gave it all to the boyfriend and his allies.

“These three were arrested with the help of the community in Pinetown as they were looking for a place to rent and the potential landlord called the police to report that he has seen the suspects,” said Manqele.

An identification parade will be held today, (Tuesday, 16 October) at Durban central SAPS from 1pm.

Pinetown police appeal to members of the community who might have fallen victim to the same scam to come forward. Those who were not able to go to the ID parade are urged to urgently contact Lieutenant Colonel Mwelase 083 661 0358.