GAUTENG – Laurence Chinagorom Uche (53), was arrested on Friday, 10 February 2023, following an execution of a warrant issued by the Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court in November 2022.

The Hawks’ Serious Corruption investigation has exposed Uche’s deceit of pretending to be a lawyer in and around courts in the Vaal. The investigation was prompted by an affidavit submitted by an investigating officer in an alleged rape case. The contents of the affidavit were about constant phone calls the investigator was receiving from the family of the rape accused. The family was reportedly demanding the release of the accused as they had paid money to Uche who claimed to have paid a portion to the investigator for the case not to proceed.

It is believed that other people might have fallen victims to Uche’s scam which enabled him to steal money of victims under false pretences. The investigation has further established Uche is a Nigerian National. He has appeared in court today, 13 February 2023. The case was postponed to Friday. The Hawks’ hereby appeal to those who might have fallen victim to Uche’s scam to call, Captain Makgetha Mohominyane on 0824125069.

Source: South African Police Service