FAKE “WESBANK AGENT” SENTENCED FOR R312 000 FRAUD SCAM IN GIYANI

GIYANI – The Giyani Commercial Crime Court has convicted and sentenced Zandile Nyandeni (34) for seven counts of fraud committed in Malamulele, Vhembe District.

The court heard that on 06 December 2023, the accused contacted a male complainant telephonically. Her number appeared on the complainant’s phone through Truecaller as “Zandile Nyandeni- Wesbank.” She falsely claimed that she could assist the complainant in reducing his bank credit, allegedly because he had been selected as one of the bank’s honest customers.

The complainant believed her and was instructed to deposit money to “open a file” and start the documentation process. Between 06 December 2023 and 15 January 2024, the complainant deposited a total of R312 000.00.

The case was investigated by Captain Puffy Thomas Maluleke of the Limpopo Provincial Commercial Crime Investigation Unit. Investigations revealed that the accused was not employed by Wesbank, but had previously worked as a call centre agent in Randburg, Gauteng, and that the money was deposited into her personal bank account.

A warrant of arrest was issued by the Malamulele Regional Court, and the accused was traced and arrested at Alexandra Township in Gauteng on 04 June 2024. She was later released on R10 000 bail on 21 June 2024.

On 09 March 2026, the accused pleaded guilty to all seven counts of fraud and asked the court and the complainant for forgiveness.

The Giyani Commercial Crime Court sentenced Zandile Nyandeni to R400 000 fine or eight (08) years imprisonment.The accused failed to pay the fine. She was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, welcomed the conviction and commended the investigating officer for securing justice.

“This conviction demonstrates SAPS’ commitment to combating fraud and protecting the public from scammers who exploit people through deception. We urge community members to remain vigilant and verify any financial offers before making payments,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.

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