Police issues out warrants of arrest for insurance murder scheme

Police have begun executing seven warrants of arrest linked to an alleged R10 million insurance murder-for-payout scheme believed to involve multiple victims across Limpopo.

The investigation is connected to former South African Police Service (SAPS) sergeant Rachel Kutumela, who was arrested in October 2024 while still on duty.

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Authorities allege that the suspects took out life and funeral insurance policies on at least 10 individuals who were later murdered in order to claim insurance payouts.

On Tuesday morning, police arrested three suspects, including two brothers and a traditional healer believed to have played a role in the scheme. Law enforcement officials say the operation is ongoing and additional arrests are expected as investigators continue to trace other individuals linked to the case.

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Kutumela has since been dismissed from the South African Police Service and remains behind bars. She is currently in custody alongside three co-accused which are her sister, daughter and elder brother.

Police say the case highlights the growing concern around insurance-related crimes and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring all those involved are brought to justice.