It is alleged the scheme involved creating a fake profile on a dating website to manipulate the victim into giving money.
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Three people appeared in the Muizenberg Magistrate Court on Thursday, charged with a R14 million romance fraud and money laundering scheme that targeted an elderly woman.
It is alleged the scheme involved creating a fake profile on a dating website to manipulate the victim into giving money.
The accused - Asanda Dwesini, 39; Nomphelo Fetman, 32; and Shan Gabrelle Lewis, 47; - were arrested by the Bellville Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team together with the National Intervention Unit (NIU) for their role in the alleged scheme that exploited the woman from 2017 to 2018.
"It is reported that the alleged lover lured the victim by using flirtatious language making her believe that they are in a genuine relationship. Once trust was established, he would ask for money, inventing reasons such as failed trips or a urgent fines," said a statement issued by the Hawks.
"The victim transferred money into various bank accounts shared by the alleged lover. This was often repeated until the victim became suspicious. The fraudsters gained the victim’s trust and built a relationship with her. He made everything about the romance to feel normal, but his aim was to extort her."
Major General Mathipa Makgato, the Western Cape Provincial Head of the Hawks, said the public should be cautious before involving themselves into questionable transactions.
If not certain they must not do so .
He further said, it was okay to reject or ignore any requests as criminals will often try to rush or make you panic .
If you believe you haven fallen for a scam, you should contact your bank immediately and report it to the nearest authorities.
The case against the accused was adjourned to March 26. All three remain in custody.