SUSPECT ARRESTED FOR APPROXIMATELY R1 MILLION WORTH OF FRAUD AND THEFT

GAUTENG – Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation in Johannesburg arrested a female suspect on fraud and theft allegations on Monday, 12 April.
It is alleged that the suspect, Petronella Stander (51) who was employed as an accountant at a Randburg based industrial automation software and weighbridge installation company, OPTO Africa (Pty) Ltd between 2016 and 2020, allegedly swindled approximately R1 million in numerous transactions meant for suppliers into her bank account.
The matter was referred to the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for further investigation. A warrant of arrest was issued for her apprehension and she handed herself in at the Johannesburg Hawks office on Monday and subsequently charged.
Stander appeared in the Randburg Magistrates Court on Tuesday and was remanded in custody. The case is postponed to 20 April 2021 for formal bail application.