Ghanaian and Nigerian lover held for R30m airline scam

A Ghanaian man and his Nigerian girlfriend were arrested in South Africa in connection with a R30-million airline scam, Western Cape police said on Thursday.

Captain Bernadine Steyn said a 33-year-old man from Ghana and his 25-year-old Nigerian girlfriend were arrested at their Radar Road house on Wednesday.

At the premises, police seized a laptop, desktop computer, three modems, seven cell phones, cash (local and foreign currency), a skimming device and fraudulent documentation.

"It is believed the suspects were involved in numerous fraudulent transactions to the value of around R30-million," said Steyn.

It is alleged that the offender would steal identity documents, replace the photo and task people to open business accounts at several banks using the ID.

Discounted flights would then be advertised online, in print media and by word of mouth.

Interested clients would be requested to deposit money for these flights into the fraudulent accounts.

"The modus operandi was that he recruited people at hotels, restaurants, basically everywhere a card would be presented for payment.

"The card details of unsuspecting clients would be sourced and used by the suspect to book the flights online," said Steyn.

She said the names of different airlines had been used.

Anyone who believes they have been victims of this crime can call 021-918-3261.

The pair are expected to appear at the Cape Town Magistrates Court on Friday.