Isuzu Motors payroll clerk in court for R10.5 million theft
A Gqeberha payroll administrator has appeared in court after she was arrested for allegedly stealing more than R10.5m from her employer.
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What started as workers noticing their salaries did not add up has led to the arrest of a payroll administrator accused of helping herself to more than R10.5 million from one of South Africa's major vehicle manufacturers.
Natasja Slabbert appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on Monday, just hours after her arrest.
The Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit of the Hawks in Gqeberha arrested the 42-year-old, who worked at Isuzu Motors SA in Struandale.
Slabbert was released on R5,000 bail.
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba said the case dates back to 2024.
“[Employees] noticed their take-home pay was lower than expected, despite higher amounts reflecting on their payslips,” he said.
“An internal review uncovered serious payroll irregularities, and the matter was subsequently referred to the Hawks for further investigation.
“During the probe conducted by the Hawks, it is alleged that in August 2024, approximately R626,500 was apparently unlawfully transferred from the company’s payroll account into the suspect’s personal bank account.”
He said further investigation allegedly revealed a “well-planned scheme” in which payroll records were manipulated and false entries created to conceal unlawful payments.
“These entries were allegedly made to appear as legitimate deductions and contributions,” Fumba said.
“As a result of the alleged fraud, the company reportedly suffered losses exceeding R10.5m.”
Eastern Cape Hawks boss Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya said: “Commercial crime is not a victimless crime.
“It affects workers, damages businesses and harms our economy, further stated that people who abuse positions of trust to steal money will face the full force of the law.”
The matter was postponed to next Tuesday and transferred to the Gqeberha Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.
She is expected to apply for legal representation at her next appearance.
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