A 24-year-old man, Felgio Alexandra Mbanze, is expected to make his second appearance in the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on October 21, for a bail application following his arrest on multiple charges related to fraud.

According to police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh, Mbanze was arrested on, October 10, by members of the Provincial Commercial Crime Investigation Unit (CCIU). He faces charges of fraud, forgery, uttering, theft, and possession of stolen property.

It is alleged that between September and October, Mbanze posed as a business representative and fraudulently applied for credit worth R150 000. The complainant became suspicious after the application was approved and reported the matter to the police.

Police intercepted the suspect as he was leaving a store after loading items valued at R62 000, which were later returned to the rightful owner. A Ford Ranger vehicle and a cell phone were also confiscated during the arrest.

The Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, commended the swift action of the police and the vigilance of the store employee who alerted authorities.

“As we approach the Festive Season, a period often marked by increased retail and automotive transactions, businesses must remain vigilant,” Asaneng warned. “Thanks to an alert employee, this fraudster was caught, preventing a significant financial loss.”

Mbanze remains in custody pending the outcome of his bail application.