A Phoenix man, who allegedly posed as a pastor and a friend were arrested on Wednesday and charged with theft. It is alleged they were ripping off marquee hire businesses of their wares.
They appeared in the Phoenix magistrate's court on Monday.
Trevor Chengadu, 27, of Randmor Road, Centenary Park, and Myandran Naidoo, 36, of Palmford Road, Sunford, were charged with theft under false pretences and released on bail of R2 000 each.
Investigating officer Titus Marimuthu said Chengadu would hire out chair and trestle tables from a number of marquee hire businesses in the area. "He would ask these businesses to deliver the items to various locations.
And if asked the reason for hiring the items, he would say he planned to host a function for underprivileged children.
"He would leave incorrect cellphone numbers with these businesses.
"Chengadu's friend, Myandran Naidoo, would then collect the chairs and trestles, allegedly sell them and the two would pocket the money."
Marimuthu said this had gone on since November and Chengadu was arrested at his home after police were tipped off.
He said the matter was postponed to next year.