Rita Odafe
South African Businesswoman and Two Ugandans Arrested in R2 Million Scam
A South African entrepreneur, Mmkgomo Doris Ngcobo, alongside Ugandan nationals Derrick Nsubuga, 34, and Nassazi Jo, has been apprehended for their involvement in a R2 million romance scam.
The trio made a court appearance at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court in Ekurhuleni on November 21, 2024, facing fraud charges.
Ngcobo’s arrest was executed by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks. Numerous victims have accused her of playing a vital role in a deceitful ring that left many heartbroken and financially drained.
“The suspects were detained on Friday, November 15, as part of an investigation into their activities within a fraudulent dating scheme. They are to return for a bail hearing on Monday, December 9,” announced Captain Lloyd Ramovha from Gauteng Hawks.
Ngcobo is facing additional allegations, with prosecutor Alistair Appel informing the court that she and her associates are linked to scams totaling R2 million.
Magistrate Sheron Soko-Rantao indicated the serious nature of the case, classifying it as a schedule five offence due to the significant sum involved.
According to the Hawks, the case against Ngcobo and her associates began when a complaint was filed at the Sandton police station in September 2024. Ngcobo, 42, and her co-defendants from Uganda are implicated in this fraud case.
Allegations suggest that a South African woman, who remains unnamed for privacy, met “Troy” on the dating platform Badoo in July 2024.
“After establishing communication, the suspect encouraged the woman to switch to WhatsApp for further chats,” Ramovha stated.
“They eventually agreed to meet in person, where he introduced her to a woman claiming to be his aunt and a traditional healer.”
The so-called “aunt” misled the victim into believing she required spiritual cleansing, asserting that she was cursed.
“During this supposed ritual, she was convinced to pursue a business venture based on guidance from her ancestors,” Ramovha explained.
The victim withdrew R20,000 and transferred R233,000, believing her actions would invoke the promised spiritual blessings.
Following this, she was pressured to acquire another loan before being robbed while carrying the money to deliver to the scammers.
Upon realizing she had been defrauded, she reported the situation to the Sandton police department.
The case was handed over to the Hawks, leading to recent arrests following a raid at a residence in Roodepoort, Johannesburg.
Officers caught the scammers in the midst of trying to take advantage of another victim.
The three individuals appeared in court again, where proceedings were delayed until Thursday.
Further arrests linked to this ongoing investigation are expected.
Meanwhile, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, head of the Hawks in Gauteng, has issued a warning about the dangers associated with online dating, highlighting that many individuals have faced similar deceptions over the years.
“While online platforms can facilitate introductions, they can also pose significant risks, as we see in this situation. Be cautious and verify identities when using dating apps,” Kadwa advised.
“Stay vigilant against requests for financial or personal details. The Hawks remain dedicated to safeguarding the public and ensuring a secure online experience. If you suspect fraud, please report it,” he urged.
