The Ladybrand Magistrates’ Court has thrown the book at one half of the Titus couple, convicted of counts of fraud and money laundering. The court sentenced Albert David Titus to 11 years’ direct imprisonment while his wife, Bonolo Millicent, walked free.
The sentencing of Albert yesterday – Tuesday, 4 June – was the culmination of probing by the Free State Hawks’ Serious Commercial unit. Col. Zweli Mohobeleli, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said only Albert was found guilty of defrauding numerous Ladybrand residents, while Bonolo was acquitted. They have been appearing in court since September last year.
Mohobeleli said victims lost large amounts of money they invested in the couple’s bogus get-rich-quick scheme.
“Twelve victims invested a cumulative R900 000 with the accused, who had promised a 20% monthly interest for investing on their behalf. One victim, who had sowed R100 000, alerted the police when dividends were no longer forthcoming. The accused was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Mohobeleli.
Probing by the Hawks revealed Albert operated the bogus scheme in 2020 and vanished the same year. The couple handed themselves over to the police after widespread reports that the Hawks were searching for them in connection with a fraudulent investment scheme.
