LIMPOPO – The Hawks’ investigation into an alleged franchise scam that reportedly left a Limpopo pensioner out of pocket by more than R600 000 has taken another turn, with a second suspect now linked to the case.

The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit has served a 47-year-old man with a criminal summons. He is expected to appear in the Polokwane Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on July 8, where he will join his co-accused on fraud charges.

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The development follows the earlier court appearance of Pieter Antonio Dupper and another accused in connection with the matter. Dupper appeared in the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court, where he was granted bail of R10 000.

According to the Hawks, the complainant responded to an advertisement promoting a PHD Health Market franchise opportunity and invested R378 000 in the business.

Investigators allege she was later advised to spend a further R228 000 converting her garage into business premises and purchasing equipment needed to operate the franchise.

However, the equipment was allegedly never delivered. The complainant also reportedly lost contact with those involved, and the business was no longer operating from its listed address.

As the investigation continued, the Hawks identified the 47-year-old as another suspect. He was served with a J175 criminal summons on June 25 and is expected to appear in court next month.

Limpopo Hawks provincial head, Major General Adv Gopz Govender, praised the investigating team for their work and urged members of the public to thoroughly verify investment and franchise opportunities before committing their money.

The matter remains before the courts, and all accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.