How the Fraud Unfolded
The WhatsApp Alert
In May 2026, Jordaan, the financial manager of Middelburg‑based company Jormid, got a WhatsApp message that looked like it came from ABSA Bank. The message warned of suspicious activity on the company’s account and asked her to confirm the transactions.
The Fake Bank Call
When Jordaan refused to approve the transfers, she received a phone call from someone claiming to be from ABSA’s fraud department. The caller told her she needed to help cancel the alleged activity and to approve electronic links sent to her phone.
The Discovery
During the call, a colleague warned Jordaan that large, unauthorized transfers had already been moved out of Jormid’s account. She immediately contacted ABSA’s fraud team and filed a report with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Middelburg.
The Investigation Begins
Referral to the Asset Forfeiture Unit
On May 29, 2026, the case was handed over to the National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU). The AFU launched a financial investigation and asked the Financial Intelligence Center (FIC) for assistance.
Freezing the Suspect Accounts
The FIC examined the flow of money and identified nine bank accounts that appeared to have received the stolen funds. It instructed ABSA Bank to freeze those accounts.
Court Action to Protect the Money
Urgent Preservation Order
The AFU urgently applied to the High Court for a preservation order. The court granted the order, which prevents anyone from moving or spending the approximately R21.55 million that is suspected to be the fraud proceeds.
Reservation of Title
In addition to the preservation order, the AFU obtained a reservation of title against the nine accounts. This legal step locks the funds in place while the NPA prepares confiscation proceedings.
What Happens Next?
Ongoing Probe
The investigation is still active. Police and prosecutors are tracing the money, identifying suspects, and gathering evidence.
Expected Charges
The NPA has indicated that arrests and charges for fraud, theft, and money‑laundering are likely as the case develops.
Conclusion
This case shows how quickly scammers can move large sums of money using fake bank messages and phone calls. Thanks to fast action by Jormid’s staff, ABSA, SAPS, the FIC, and the AFU, most of the stolen funds have been frozen. The preservation order ensures the money stays safe while investigators work to bring the perpetrators to justice. Teens can stay safe by never sharing personal banking details over WhatsApp or phone calls, and always verifying any request directly with their bank through official channels.
