BLOEMFONTEIN – The police in Bloemfontein have launched an investigation focusing on profiling the identity and origin of a man masquerading as a professional football player chiefly to defraud unsuspecting people. The suspected defrauder has been remanded in custody after a brief appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 17 February, following his arrest.
Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, provincial spokesperson for the Free State police, said the suspect operates under the pseudo-identity Junior Mahlangu and speaks Sotho language fluently. He said the man was undergoing further profiling to establish his true identity in addition to investigating individuals and businesses he scammed. Kareli said a preliminary investigation revealed the suspect was targeting businesses in Bloemfontein.
Given the complex nature of his modus operandi, the police have released his photo for circulation as part of concerted efforts to resolve fraud cases involving him. The police are urging individuals and business entities around Bloemfontein that might have been defrauded to immediately come forward to provide evidence.
“The suspect, who operates under the name Junior Mahlangu, allegedly gained the trust of business owners by claiming to be a player for a Premier Soccer League team in Gauteng and recently transferred to Bloemfontein to join a premier soccer team based in Bloemfontein. The investigation reveals that the suspect utilized this false persona to defraud several establishments across the Bloemfontein area. His primary targets included petrol stations, restaurants and guest houses,” said Kareli.
Kareli said the man was facing multiple charges including theft and fraud. He said a black Volkswagen Golf 8 bearing the registration number MT 51 CM GP was found in his possession at the time of his arrest in Bloemfontein. The vehicle was confiscated as part of the investigation.
“While the investigating team has already compiled a strong case, the team believes there may be more victims who have not yet reported their encounters with the suspect,” said Kareli. The police are urging any business owner or individual who has fallen victim to this suspect to come forward immediately.
Anyone with helpful information or wish to open a case docket, is advised to contact investigative officer Capt. Jean Marais on 082 779 8868. Alternatively, report to the nearest police station to register a formal complaint or dial 08600 10111.
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