The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s Provincial Head, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa commended both the investigation and prosecution team for a successful conviction against the fraud accused, Lindelani Pert Gumede (39) by the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crimes Court yesterday.

The court found Gumede guilty on thirty-two counts of fraud involving approximately R11 million, which he unlawfully benefited from the Covid-19 unemployment insurance fund (UIF) Temporary Employment Relief (TERS) Funds.

Between May 2020 and March 2021, Gumede submitted fraudulent documents to claim the UIF relief funds of approximately R11 183 526 million under four bakeries based in Gauteng. A thorough investigation into the fraud allegations against Gumede by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation in Germiston, revealed that Gumede was a private bookkeeper consultant for the four bakeries he allegedly defrauded during the stated period.

A warrant of arrest for Gumede’s apprehension was issued which resulted in the successful circulation on the local and international border control movement system. The investigation team effected the arrest in August last year in Durban, KwaZulu Natal and charged Gumede with fraud and theft. Authorities seized Gumede’s luxurious vehicles and land allegedly bought with proceeds of crime.

Hawks’ Priority Crime Specialised Investigation has secured a preservation order for Gumede’s financial and assets for further exploration. The court has postponed Gumede’s matter to Tuesday, 28 June 2022 for sentencing.

Major General Ibrahim Kadwa applauded all role players involved in the successful conviction of Gumede. “We commend the outstanding dedication and professionalism displayed by both the investigation and prosecution team in this case and would like to send a strong message to warn others involved in such unscrupulous activities that the Hawks will act without fear or favour”. He said.

Source: South African Police Service