A decade-old ‘ancestral’ scam that allegedly defrauded a victim of over R1.27 million has finally seen some progress.
William Matyuba (39) convinced a school teacher, that her ancestors are instructing her to resign from work and invest her pension payout, promising miraculous returns.
Following these instructions, the victim transferred large sums of money, which the accused allegedly misappropriated and disappeared with.
After years on the run, Matyuba was arrested on 5 February 2026 at OR Tambo International Airport, while entering South Africa.
He was initially brought before the Kempton Park Court and later appeared in the Zwelitsha Court on 13 February 2026. His next court appearance for a bail application is scheduled for 26 February 2026.
Cece Smith 