KZN man who allegedly robbed gogo of SASSA grant during first date to remain behind bars! A 54-year-old Chatsworth man has appeared in the Verulam Magistrate’s Court after allegedly robbing a 64-year-old Durban grandmother of her South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant money during their first date.
The incident, which has shocked many, unfolded after the woman met the accused on the online dating platform Badoo.
How the Date Turned Into a Nightmare
The 64-year-old Isipingo pensioner met the man on Badoo and agreed to go on a date with him. On Wednesday, February 5, 2024, he picked her up from Isipingo, and the pair went to the Galleria Shopping Mall in Amanzimtoti.
According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), the woman withdrew her SASSA grant money at the mall.
“The suspect then suggested that they take a drive to Hazelmere Dam in Verulam,” said RUSA spokesperson Prem Balram.
After spending three hours together at the dam, the man drove the woman to a petrol station, instructing her to freshen up before they continued their date.
KZN man who allegedly robbed gogo
However, as soon as she stepped out of the car, the man sped off, taking her handbag, R2,000 in cash, and her mobile phone.
“After robbing her, he immediately deleted his Badoo profile, making it difficult for her to track him down,” Balram added.
Victim’s Family Seeks Help from RUSA
After being stranded at the garage, the distressed woman contacted her family, who then reached out to RUSA for help.
A swift investigation was launched, leading authorities to Montford, Chatsworth, where the suspect was tracked down and arrested on Thursday.
RUSA officers found him hiding in the bedroom of his mother’s home.
Suspect’s Justification for Robbery
During his arrest, the suspect attempted to justify his actions, claiming that the pensioner had become “demanding” after they had engaged in sexual intercourse at Hazelmere Dam.
“He told officers that she started pressuring him for financial assistance, which led him to drive away with her belongings,” Balram said.
The suspect admitted to spending R1,600 of the stolen cash at Sibaya Casino, while the remaining R400 was used to buy engine oil for his car.
Police Investigate the Case
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda confirmed that Verulam police have launched an investigation into the theft.
“This follows an incident in which an undisclosed amount of money was stolen, allegedly by the victim’s friend on Wednesday, February 5, 2024,” Netshiunda stated.
“Reports indicate that the victim left her bag inside the suspect’s vehicle, and upon returning, she realized that he had driven away with her belongings.”
The case has raised concerns about the safety of online dating and the risks associated with meeting strangers through digital platforms.
Suspect to Remain in Custody
Following his court appearance on Monday, the accused has been remanded in custody and is expected to apply for bail next week.
Authorities have opted to withhold his identity until an official identity parade is conducted.
Online Dating Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked discussions about the dangers of online dating, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
Experts have urged online daters to:
- Meet in public places rather than isolated locations.
- Avoid sharing personal financial information or carrying large sums of money.
- Inform family members or friends about their whereabouts.
- Be cautious of individuals asking for money or making financial demands early in the relationship.
RUSA has warned the public to be extra cautious when meeting strangers online and to report suspicious behavior immediately.
Community Reaction
Residents in Chatsworth and Verulam have expressed shock and disappointment over the incident.
One resident, Naledi Govender, commented:
“It’s scary how people take advantage of others, especially elderly women. She trusted him, and he betrayed that trust in the worst way possible.”
Another local, Farouk Mthembu, added:
“Online dating can be risky, especially for older people who may not be familiar with how scammers operate. This man clearly had bad intentions from the start.”
Conclusion
As the suspect awaits his bail application, authorities are urging potential online daters to remain vigilant. The incident serves as a stark reminder that not everyone on dating platforms has good intentions.
The Verulam police investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days.