GQEBERHA – A company’s payroll administrator was arrested in connection with an alleged R10.5 million payroll fraud at Isuzu Motors South Africa in Struandale, Gqeberha.
Natasja Slabbert (42) was arrested by the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team of the Hawks.
According to Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba, Slabbert was arrested yesterday, 16 February 2026, following a thorough investigation conducted by the Hawks, working closely with the National Prosecuting Authority’s Specialised Commercial Crime Unit (SCCU).
“The case originated in 2024 after employees raised concerns when they noticed that their take-home pay was lower than expected, despite higher amounts reflecting on their payslips,” he said. “An internal review uncovered serious payroll irregularities and the matter was subsequently referred to the Hawks for further investigation.”
Fumba added that during the Hawks probe, it is alleged that in August 2024, approximately R626 500 was apparently unlawfully transferred from the company’s payroll account into Slabbert’s personal bank account.
“Further investigation allegedly revealed a well-planned scheme in which payroll records were manipulated and false entries created to conceal unlawful payments, with entries allegedly made to appear as legitimate deductions and contributions.”
As a result of the alleged fraud, the company reportedly suffered losses exceeding R10.5 million.
An intelligence-driven approach by the Hawks secured evidence to uncover the full extent of the alleged crime before effecting the arrest.
Slabbert was granted bail of R5,000 after appearing before the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
The matter was postponed to 24 February. She is expected to appear before the Gqeberha Specialised Commercial Crimes Court for legal representation.
