A couple residing in the Eastern Cape, Jessica Marieka Janse Van Nieuwenhuys (36) and Petrus Willem Janse Van Nieuwenhuys (35), have been arrested for tax fraud amounting to R75 million. They were apprehended by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team in Gqeberha. Their case, postponed to June 27, involves charges of value-added tax (VAT) fraud and money laundering. The National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane, stated that the couple is accused of submitting falsified VAT returns between 2018 and 2022. Jessica, an accountant, allegedly filed fraudulent returns for four freight companies and her husband, a mine project employee. The couple caused an actual prejudice of R45 million and potential damage of R75 million to the public purse. Colonel Zweli Mohobeleli from the Hawks confirmed that the fraudulent activities occurred while the couple lived in the Free State. They have been released on R50,000 bail each pending further legal proceedings.
Teboho Setena
www.news24.com