How a Gqeberha family defrauded the UIF of R500 000

A Gqeberha family has been found guilty of defrauding the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) ten years after committing the crime. 

Dimitri Jantjies, 48,  Barbara Jantjies, 77, Thomas Jantjies, 77, Virsinese Jantjies, 42, and Tania Jantjies, 49, were convicted in the Gqeberha Commercial Crime Court. 

The NPA said the matter was marked by medical delays, technical challenges, and legal wrangling.

The five were found guilty on one count of fraud and twelve counts of money laundering.

NPA spokesperson in the Eastern Cape said the fraud, which ran from May 2009 to March 2011, involved the manipulation of official documents, including employer declaration forms (UI-19s), to divert UIF funds into bank accounts controlled by the accused.

"The investigation revealed that the accused used their positions and influence within the Department to ensure that the false claims were processed and approved.

"The single count of fraud comprised 18 false UIF claims, resulting in an actual loss of approximately R500 000 and a potential prejudice exceeding R110 000. "

The NPA said a total of 16 witnesses testified during the trial.

"These witnesses were either known to or related to the accused, or had been approached by them through family connections, social circles, or even their domestic worker.

"Some were family friends, others fellow church members, and some former partners.

"None of the claimants was aware that their accounts were being used to channel fraudulent UIF funds, underscoring the calculated and concealed nature of the operation."

The matter was adjourned for pre sentence reports in January. 

The accused bail was extended. 

Cape Times