The Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation based in Secunda is investigating three fraud cases whereby a company called Mr. Coin deceived people to invest their monies by promising them to get from 80% to 150% interest.
It is alleged in January 2021, about nine scammers with seven males and two females, known as Sibusiso Mkhize, Ngwenya (unknown name), Charles Ndlovu, Sqelo Mahlangu (Mastermind and the boss of the group) – no picture available, and Keabetsi Dikobe – no picture available, recruited residents around Elukwatini and promised them that if they bring people to invest they will be paid 10% commission for each recruit.
They allegedly made presentations in schools and gave children pairs of school shoes as if they were giving back to poor communities. They also employed local people to do their deeds. They made some events where people won prizes in competitions. They were targeting professionals like nurses, teachers, police officers, etc so that people would think they are legit. More than 5000 victims fell into their trap.
These so-called investment were divided into three categories: silver, gold, and platinum. Silver category’s interest was 80% of the invested amount, the gold category’s interest was 100% and the platinum category’s interest was 150%.
The “Mr. Coin” office that was at a mall at Elukwatini recruited and attracted people from Nhlazatshe, Elukwatini, Ekulindeni, and other surrounding places. There were also other offices at Carolina, Ermelo, and Dundonuld which recruited and attracted people from surrounding areas.
The investment money was brought in cash and not deposited in bank accounts. They also paid people in cash as their pay-outs. They tried their utmost best to hide the evidence and their identities.
It is alleged that on 11 March 2022, victims went to the offices to make some claims and found the offices closed. Information was reported to the Hawks for investigation.
It is alleged that the suspects were speaking Zulu except for a lady who was speaking Setswana.
Major General Zodwa Mokoena requested members of the public to assist with information on the whereabouts of the suspects by contacting the investigating officer, in this case, Captain Thembinkosi Nkambule on 082 303 9872.
The General concluded by urging members of the public not to be deceived by the scammers of their hard-earned money.