By OBAKENG MAJE
31 October 2025- A fraud case against the accused, Richard Vincent Zitha (40) was postponed by the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court to 19 November 2025. The case was also transferred to the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court that will sit in Klerksdorp.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said Zitha is charged with one count of fraud. Gunya said it is alleged that on 13 November 2024, Zitha falsely presented himself as an employee of Apex Edge Construction (Pty) Ltd when applying for vehicle finance at Ford Finance Service in Klerksdorp.
“Investigations revealed that he allegedly forged an employment contract and submitted other fraudulent documents as part of his application for a Ford Ranger Double Cab 2024 model. His application was approved and he subsequently entered into a finance agreement with Ford Finance to purchase the vehicle valued at R760 177.25.
“On 15 November 2024, he signed an online contract with the dealership. The employment contract he submitted stated that he was employed as a Manager at Apex Edge Construction from 1 November 2024. The state alleges that Zitha knew the representations were false and intended to mislead the complainants to their prejudice. In court, Zitha was granted bail of R15 000,” he said.
Gunya further said as part of his bail conditions, Zitha is expected to report to the Tembisa Police Station every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 6am and 6pm. He added that he was also instructed to refrain from interfering with witnesses and inform the investigating officer of any change of address.
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the collaborative efforts of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and other law enforcement stakeholders, which led to the swift arrest and court appearance of the accused.
The Guardian 