GQEBERHA – A Humansdorp attorney has been convicted of stealing nearly R6 million from 14 deceased estates after pleading guilty to 14 counts of theft in the Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Gqeberha on 30 July.
According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson Luxolo Tyali, the matter stems from allegations that, between 23 March 2021 and 4 December 2023, Annene Krouwkam-Claasen (36), acting in her capacity as a trust and estate administrator through her own firm, served as the appointed agent, executor and trustee of various deceased estates.
He said that, in this role, she unlawfully and intentionally misappropriated funds entrusted to her for safekeeping and administration.
Tyali said that, in her plea, Krouwkam-Claasen admitted that, during the period in question and in or near Humansdorp, she siphoned nearly R6 million from the bank accounts of 14 deceased estates.
“The stolen funds were transferred into her personal bank account and the account of Ancoris Fiduciary Services (Pty) Ltd, a company of which she was the sole director,” said Tyali.
He said the State proved that the funds were used for her personal benefit, in blatant breach of the fiduciary duties she owed to grieving families and vulnerable beneficiaries.
Tyali said her conduct also constituted a direct violation of the reporting obligations prescribed by the Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965 and enforced by the Master of the High Court.
Commenting on the conviction, Eastern Cape Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Samkelo Mtwana said, “This is a betrayal of the highest order. Executors are entrusted with carrying out the final wishes of the deceased and safeguarding the interests of beneficiaries. Instead, the accused exploited her position of trust for personal enrichment.
“This conviction sends a strong message that the NPA, working closely with the SAPS Commercial Crimes Unit, will act decisively against those who abuse positions of responsibility for personal gain. We remain committed to protecting the integrity of estate administration and ensuring justice for victims and their families.”
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