GQEBERHA – Three suspects accused of defrauding Coega Dairy of R11.9 million were released on R15 000 bail each after appearing in the Gqeberha New Law Court.
Vivian David Sass (66), Aladin Freddie Sass (41) and Cheslin Peter Sass (40) appeared before the Gqeberha New Law Court yesterday, facing 48 counts of commercial fraud.
In a statement, Provincial Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana said the allegations relate to a distribution agreement concluded in 2018 between Coega Dairy and Universal Holdings, which authorised the latter to distribute dairy products across Gqeberha, East London and Cape Town.
“It is reported that the consignment stock were supplied to Universal Holdings for onward distribution to retailers and other commercial clients,” Mhlakuvana said.
However, Coega Dairy received multiple complaints from customers who had paid for products that were never delivered.
The company requested proof of delivery documentation from Universal Holdings, but the distributor was reportedly unable to provide it.
“It is further alleged that the accused, acting in their capacities within Universal Holdings, systematically misappropriated the consignment stock entrusted to them,” Mhlakuvana said. “The suspects misrepresented stock levels held at distribution warehouses, thereby concealing the alleged irregularities.”
Investigations by the Hawks established that the alleged conduct caused financial prejudice to Coega Dairy amounting to over R11.9 million.
It is also alleged that the suspects sold products to customers but failed to remit payment to the company.
The matter has been postponed to 30 March for transfer to the Gqeberha Specialised Commercial Crimes Court and for further investigation.
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