R43m assets frozen in global call centre scam

The National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) has secured a provisional restraint order worth nearly R44 million against suspects linked to an international call centre fraud syndicate operating in Johannesburg.

The order was granted by the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg on 26 February 2026 in terms of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. It follows the arrest of several suspects on 27 January 2026 in connection with an alleged global scam run from Bryanston.

According to the NPA, the restraint order targets a wide range of high value assets believed to be proceeds of crime. These include multiple luxury properties across Gauteng, some valued at more than R3 million, as well as a fleet of high end vehicles. Among the vehicles listed are a Mercedes-Benz A45S AMG, Aston Martin DB9, Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI, Toyota Fortuner, Jaguar E-Pace, Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

The total estimated value of the restrained assets is approximately R43.9 million.

On Tuesday, law enforcement teams moved swiftly to enforce the court order. Sheriffs of the court, supported by members of the Asset Forfeiture Unit, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation and appointed auctioneers, visited several properties across Gauteng to seize assets covered by the order.

Authorities confirmed that a number of vehicles have already been taken into custody and placed in storage. These assets will remain under state control pending the outcome of the criminal case and any subsequent confiscation proceedings.

Investigators allege that the syndicate operated a network of fraudulent call centres targeting victims in multiple countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. The operation is believed to have been orchestrated by an international group with links to Israel.

According to evidence presented in court, the call centres used deceptive online advertisements to lure victims. Individuals who responded to these adverts were contacted by agents posing as investment consultants and persuaded to invest in non existent financial products.

The NPA said the scheme relied heavily on manipulation tactics. Call centre agents allegedly targeted vulnerable individuals, building trust over time before misrepresenting investment opportunities and promising high returns. Victims were then convinced to transfer funds, which were ultimately siphoned off by the syndicate.

The criminal case against the accused is currently before the Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court. Proceedings have been postponed to 4 June 2026 to allow for further investigation.

The Asset Forfeiture Unit said the restraint order marks a significant step in ensuring that those involved in organised crime do not benefit from незаконно obtained proceeds. By freezing assets at an early stage, authorities aim to preserve them for possible forfeiture to the state if the accused are convicted.

The NPA highlighted the role of coordinated law enforcement efforts in securing the order. Collaboration between the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Specialised Commercial Crime Unit and the Asset Forfeiture Unit was credited for the breakthrough.

Spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said the case demonstrates the state’s commitment to tackling complex financial crimes and recovering illicit gains, particularly those linked to cross border cybercrime networks.

Investigations are ongoing.