The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Eastern Cape has achieved a significant victory in the fight against fraud and theft. A High Court in KuGompo City (formerly East London) recently granted an order to seize assets worth R800,000 tied to a fraudulent pension scam. This successful action highlights the NPA’s commitment to safeguarding citizens and their assets from exploitation.
Court Order Details and Timeline
On 17 February 2026, the High Court granted the forfeiture order, which allowed the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) to seize various assets linked to the fraud. The order included a flat in Quigney, a Chevrolet Utility motor vehicle, and several items of furniture and appliances. The legal action came after a preservation order was granted by the court on 28 October 2025.
According to the NPA, the fraudulent scheme was orchestrated by an individual known as “Mamavuma,” who posed as a traditional healer. The scam primarily targeted a 65-year-old pensioner from KuGompo City, who had been deceived into handing over large sums of money under the guise of spiritual cleansing rituals.
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme
The ordeal began when the pensioner consulted Mamavuma for assistance, as he faced challenges accessing his pension benefits. Mamavuma, operating from a muti shop, initially offered help without requesting payment. She promised to unblock the pension payout through traditional healing methods and performed various rituals.
In February 2025, the pensioner received his pension payout, which exceeded R6 million. After informing Mamavuma about this, she advised him that the funds needed to be “cleansed” before they could be used. Under her instructions, the pensioner withdrew R4,461,000 in cash and handed it over to Mamavuma for the alleged ritual cleansing process.
However, Mamavuma soon claimed that additional steps were necessary, including a trip to Musina to obtain protective medicine. When the pensioner became suspicious, he realized he had been scammed. Mamavuma disappeared shortly after, prompting the pensioner to report the incident to the authorities.
Investigation and Asset Tracing
Following the report, investigations revealed that Mamavuma had likely fled the country. However, she had transferred over R1 million to a local associate, who also disappeared.
This associate used the funds to purchase several assets, including the forfeited flat, vehicle, and other items. These assets were later traced by the AFU, which linked them directly to the proceeds of the fraud.
The AFU successfully secured a preservation order, allowing for the seizure of the assets. As part of the asset forfeiture process, these items will be sold at an auction, with the proceeds being paid to the victim of the scam to the extent possible. This marks a significant step in recovering stolen funds and ensuring that criminals do not benefit from ill-gotten gains.
The NPA’s Commitment to Justice
The NPA spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, emphasized the importance of the successful forfeiture in securing justice for the victim. “The forfeited assets will be sold on auction, and the proceeds paid over to the complainant to the extent possible,” Tyali said. He also commended the AFU and its law enforcement partners for their dedication and tireless efforts in tracing and preserving the assets involved.
Barry Madolo, the Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, praised the successful action as a clear demonstration of the NPA’s resolve to strip criminals of their ill-gotten gains. “This case underscores our commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens from exploitation,” Madolo stated.
Warning to Criminals Exploiting Vulnerable Citizens
The NPA has reiterated its determination to pursue individuals who masquerade as traditional healers for criminal gain. The NPA has made it clear that anyone found engaging in such exploitative activities will be relentlessly pursued and brought to justice.
This case serves as a stark reminder that individuals using fraudulent schemes to prey on vulnerable people will face serious legal consequences. The NPA continues to work diligently to protect citizens from such exploitation and safeguard the integrity of the pension system.
