Two people arrested for 1.2 million meat fraud in Mookgophong

Police in Mookgophong, Limpopo, have arrested two male suspects, aged 34 and 46, in connection with a fraud case involving a fictitious meat order valued at R1.2 million.

On Monday, 20 April 2026, the General Manager of an Agricultural Hub in Naboomspruit received a call from an unknown male who identified himself as an employee of a certain catering company.

The caller placed an order for meat totalling R1.2 million and indicated that payment would be made via electronic transfer, with proof of payment to be provided.

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On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, a fraudulent proof of payment was forwarded to the General Manager. The document was submitted to the company’s Finance Division for verification. It was subsequently confirmed that no funds had been deposited into the company’s account and that the proof of payment was fraudulent.

The matter was immediately reported to the police. An intelligence-driven tactical operation was initiated. The suspects were led to believe that payment had been received and delivery arrangements were co-ordinated and agreed that delivery point was Jubilee Mall at Hammanskraal, Gauteng province.

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On Wednesday, 23 April 2026, a truck loaded with boxes disguised as meat was dispatched under police surveillance to the delivery location.

Upon arrival in Hammanskraal, a male suspect entered the truck and directed the driver to the delivery address. A second male suspect later approached the truck and guided the driver to a parking area to offload. Both male suspects aged 34 and 46 were suddenly apprehended on the spot.

The suspects are scheduled to appear before the Naboomspruit Magistrate court on Friday, 24 April 2026, facing a charge of fraud.