Media Statement
Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS)

PRETORIA - A 69-year-old suspect was arrested on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 by members of the Hawks' Serious Economic Offences team for fraud.

It is alleged that during July 2018, the suspect approached the victim and promised him business opportunities and investments in petroleum and gas storage as well as fuel trading. The suspect further presented alleged documents purporting to be a signed agreement and a standby letter of credit from the bank. After these business presentations by the the suspect, the victim then invested an amount of R16.4 million to the suspect. The money was was then used by the suspect for his own personal gain and the victim never received any business opportunities as agreed.

The matter was then reported to the Hawks' Serious Economic Offences Unit for further investigation culminating in the arrest of the suspect.

Mahendren Munsamy briefly appeared before the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crimes Court today, 17 February 2026 where his case was remanded to the 20 February 2026 formal bail application.
Ends

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Colonel Katlego Mogale
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