The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit has apprehended a third suspect in connection with a sophisticated scam involving precious metals. Lars Niehaus, aged 64, was arrested for alleged involvement in theft, fraud, and money laundering, with a total loss to the victim estimated at R2 million.
The case began in January 2022 when the complainant was approached at a mall by a man posing as a prominent businessman from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He proposed an investment opportunity in mining a valuable mineral known as “coltan.” The complainant was reassured about the legitimacy of the venture and was told that a company based in the DRC held a license to import the minerals safely into South Africa.
The scam escalated with follow-up meetings involving additional individuals, who demanded funds from the complainant for various “business-related” expenses. These included supposed travel arrangements to the DRC to meet with the Minister of Mining, as well as a trip to Dubai to meet potential buyers. Payments were made into an account under the business name Highgate Lease and Trading (PTY) LTD, allegedly belonging to Niehaus. Ultimately, the complainant lost R2 million in the fraudulent scheme.
The case, opened in August 2022, was taken on by the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team. Earlier this year, the investigation led to the arrest of two other suspects, Lindiwe Makelele and Zingah Mpoyi, whose accounts were reportedly used to launder parts of the stolen funds. Makelele was taken into custody on 25 March 2024 and released on R2,000 bail, while Mpoyi was arrested on 17 April 2024 and granted R5,000 bail.
On Thursday, 31 October 2024, Niehaus was detained at OR Tambo International Airport upon arrival. The following day, a warrant for his arrest was issued, and he made his initial court appearance on Monday, 4 November 2024. The case has been postponed to Tuesday, 5 November 2024, when Niehaus is set to apply for formal bail.
This development marks another step forward in tackling complex financial crimes targeting investors through fraudulent schemes in the precious metals sector.
