Mozambican Nationals Sentenced in Mpumalanga for Bank Card Fraud

In a significant judicial ruling on December 5, 2024, the Louw's Creek Periodical Court in Mpumalanga delivered its verdict against two foreign nationals involved in a sophisticated fraud operation. Januario Mbalane and Lourence Mbiza, both Mozambican citizens, were found guilty of using stolen or counterfeit bank cards to facilitate illegal toll gate transactions, causing financial losses to unsuspecting victims.

The case unfolded when the Nelspruit-based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit received crucial information on April 24, 2024, concerning fraudulent activities at various toll gates. In a collaborative effort with forensic investigators from First National Bank (FNB) and Nedbank, along with State Prosecutor Ms. H Mafuyeka, an elaborate operation was set up to apprehend the culprits.

Mbalane and Mbiza were arrested during this meticulously planned operation and were found in possession of multiple FNB bank cards and toll gate payment slips, which were used to execute the fraud. The investigation revealed that the duo helped truck and motor vehicle drivers bypass the toll payments using these counterfeit cards, resulting in actual losses amounting to R3,321.00 and R1,808.00 respectively.

The court proceedings, presided over on December 5, concluded with Mbalane pleading guilty and receiving a sentence of a R4,000 fine or an alternative of six months' incarceration. Similarly, Mbiza, aged 47, faced the consequences of his actions with a R3,000 fine or the same length in prison time.

Major General Gerber, the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, lauded the effectiveness of the inter-agency cooperation that led to the successful apprehension and prosecution of the criminals. He also seized this opportunity to remind the public of the perils of engaging with fraudulent activities and the importance of using legitimate methods for transactions.

This case not only highlights the ongoing issues with financial fraud in South Africa but also serves as a testament to the vigilance and collaboration between financial institutions and law enforcement agencies in tackling such crimes. The judiciary's firm stance against fraud is hoped to act as a deterrent against potential offenders, safeguarding the financial system and the interests of the public.