Durban gogo robbed of SASSA grant after meeting man on dating site
Durban gogo robbed of SASSA grant after meeting man on dating site! A 66-year-old grandmother from Isipingo, Durban, looking for love, was left devastated after falling victim to an online dating scam. The woman, who had hoped to find companionship, instead lost her SASSA grant money and cellphone to a man she met on Badoo, a popular dating site.
Online Romance Turns into a Nightmare
According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), the elderly woman had been chatting online with a 54-year-old man from Chatsworth. After building a connection, the two decided to meet in person.
On Wednesday, the suspect picked up the woman from Isipingo, and they drove to Galleria Mall in Amanzimtoti, where she withdrew her monthly SASSA grant of R2,000.
“The couple then drove to Hazelmere Dam in Verulam,” said Prem Balram, head of RUSA.
They spent approximately three hours together, after which the man drove her to a garage so she could freshen up.
However, what started as a seemingly romantic outing quickly turned into betrayal.
Durban gogo robbed of SASSA grant
Suspect Flees with Victim’s Money and Phone
While the woman was inside the garage, the suspect sped off, taking her bag, R2,000 in cash, and cellphone. To cover his tracks, he deleted his Badoo profile, cutting off all communication with the victim.
Left shocked and stranded, the distressed pensioner sought help from her family, who then approached RUSA for assistance in tracking down the suspect.
Police Investigation Leads to Arrest
Through an investigation, RUSA was able to trace the suspect’s vehicle to Montford in Chatsworth.
“The suspect was arrested in his bedroom. He is living with his mother,” Balram revealed.
During questioning, the suspect admitted to abandoning the woman, explaining that she had started asking for financial assistance after they had been intimate at Hazelmere Dam.
What Happened to the Stolen Money?
After fleeing the scene, the man drove to Sibaya Casino, where he gambled away R1,600 on slot machines.
He then used the remaining R400 to buy engine oil for his car.
The reckless behavior of the suspect, along with the cruel manner in which he took advantage of the elderly woman, has sparked outrage.
Legal Action and Police Response
A case of theft has been opened at Verulam SAPS, and police are investigating the matter further. Authorities have been approached for comment regarding when the suspect will make his first court appearance.
The incident has raised concerns about the risks of online dating, particularly for elderly and vulnerable individuals who may fall victim to scammers and opportunists.
Lessons Learned: Online Dating Safety for Seniors
This unfortunate event highlights the dangers of online dating scams. Experts advise individuals—especially seniors—to take precautions when meeting someone for the first time, such as:
- Meeting in a public place rather than isolated locations.
- Not sharing personal financial details or withdrawing large sums of money during a date.
- Informing family or friends about the meeting and its location.
- Conducting background checks on potential romantic partners.
- Being cautious of individuals who ask for financial assistance early in the relationship.
While the victim in this case was lucky to receive assistance, many others may not be as fortunate. This case serves as a strong reminder to exercise caution and vigilance in the world of online dating.
In other news – Naledi Aphiwe under fire over Shembe church comments
Rising music star Naledi Aphiwe Myongwane has found herself at the center of a heated controversy after openly criticizing the marriage customs of the Shembe Church. The debate started when social media users raised concerns about the practice of older men seeking young brides during a mass engagement ceremony in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Myongwane, known for being outspoken on social issues, joined the discussion and did not hold back in expressing her views. In a series of social media posts, she strongly condemned the practice, questioning why young women were marrying significantly older men. Read More
