Two woman arrested, charged after bringing corpse to bank over unpaid funeral cover

TWO women have been arrested and charged with extortion, intimidation and public disturbance after bringing their deceased family member's body to a Capitec Bank branch in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal, following a dispute over a funeral policy payout.

The dramatic incident, which forced the closure of the branch, unfolded when one of two funeral policies allegedly remained unpaid pending verification.

Constable Siphesihle Myeni, the KwaDukuza police spokesperson, said police responded to a report of disturbance at a bank on Chief Albert Luthuli Street on Wednesday at about 10am.

“A family brought a corpse due to non-payment of funeral cover insurance. Reports indicate that the family had two policies with the bank for their grandmother; one was paid out and the second was pending verification due to an unclear funeral parlour stamp.

“The family brought the deceased's body to the bank using a funeral parlour's vehicle, causing disturbance and intimidation. As a result, two women were arrested for extortion, disturbance and intimidation. The deceased’s body was taken to KwaDukuza Mortuary for further investigation,” he said. 

Nikesh Hooblall, the owner of Taurus Medical and Security, told POST yesterday (Wednesday), that  he received a group WhatsApp message about a body left in the bank this morning. 

"When I arrived, there was a lot of commotion. The family stood outside talking to officials, while security cordoned off the bank. The deceased was in a body bag on the floor inside the bank. It seemed there was a dispute over a funeral policy.”

Hooblall said a large crowd, including other staff members and customers, had gathered to watch the scene unfold.

Meanwhile, Capitec, in a statement, said they were  “deeply saddened by the distressing incident” that occurred at their Stanger branch in KwaDukuza. 

“We extend our sincere condolences to the family during what is clearly an incredibly difficult and emotional time. We understand the sensitivity of the circumstances and deeply apologise to those affected. 

“We recognise the impact this situation has had on those involved, as well as on our employees and the broader community. The branch has been closed while we manage the matter, and we are providing the necessary support to all affected parties.

“Capitec is engaging with the relevant authorities and will ensure that all appropriate processes are followed with care, dignity, and respect," it read. 

The women will appear in the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court this week.

THE POST