KARIEGA – A 55-year-old woman was convicted on three counts of fraud yesterday, 9 December, at the Regional Court of Kariega after Nelson Mandela Bay District Detectives successfully investigated insurance-related fraud cases.
According to SAPS spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, in September 2023, Monelwa Gwani was one of the suspects arrested during a multidisciplinary operation where arrest warrants were executed in KwaNobuhle and Despatch. “The suspects were wanted in several fraud cases where the motive for the crimes was driven by greed and deception (insurance claims).”
Janse Van Rensburg added that Monelwa Gwani was convicted on three counts of fraud against Sanlam, Hollard, and Momentum.
Following the exhaustive presentation of evidence before the Regional Court in Kariega, the accused was convicted and found guilty on three counts of fraud where she submitted fraudulent claims.
She was sentenced as follows:
- Count 1: Fraud – 5 years’ imprisonment
- Count 2: Fraud – 5 years’ imprisonment
- Count 3: Fraud – 5 years’ imprisonment
The sentences imposed against her will run concurrently.
The Acting Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner Brigadier Loyiso Ngalo said the recent conviction for insurance fraud serves as a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice. “Such criminal acts not only undermine the integrity of the insurance industry but also place an unfair financial burden on law-abiding citizens.”
He added: “This successful prosecution sends a clear and compelling message that fraudulent behaviour will not be tolerated. It stands as an important example to future offenders that the law will be enforced decisively, and those who attempt to deceive or exploit the system will face serious consequences.”
