A multi-disciplinary operation led by the Northern Cape Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit has resulted in the arrest of eight suspects linked to a major diamond investment scam.
The operation, which took place last night, saw suspects apprehended across Gauteng and the North West province. Among those arrested are a couple, with the husband alleged to be the mastermind behind the fraudulent scheme, alongside his wife.
Since 2019, the scam is believed to have defrauded diamond investors of over R4 billion. Authorities have indicated that further arrests are likely as the investigation continues.
The suspects are due to appear in the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 24 October 2024, facing charges that include fraud, money laundering, theft, and racketeering.
The Hawks have reiterated their commitment to bringing those involved in such high-level financial crimes to justice, as more efforts are made to uncover the full extent of this operation.
