A Chatsworth man is set to appear in court again for an identity parade after allegedly robbing a 64-year-old woman of her South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant money during a first date. The 54-year-old suspect, who has not been named, faces charges of theft and was initially due to apply for bail on Monday, February 17, 2025. His next court appearance will be on Friday.
The robbery took place earlier this month when the man took the woman on a date to Hazelmere Dam. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and a report by Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), the two first visited the Galleria Shopping Mall in Amanzimtoti on February 5, 2025, where the woman withdrew her SASSA grant. After spending around three hours together, the man drove her to a garage, telling her it was a stop to freshen up. In a shocking turn, he sped off with her bag, which contained R2,000 in cash and her mobile phone. The man also quickly deleted his Badoo profile after the incident.
RUSA was contacted by the victim’s family, who sought help in tracking down the suspect. Their efforts led to the man’s arrest at his mother’s home in Montford, Chatsworth. Police in KwaZulu-Natal confirmed that a theft case was opened, and an investigation is ongoing.
This case highlights the dangers that can arise even in seemingly innocent situations, such as a first date, and it has captured the attention of the public. As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be watching closely to see how the case progresses.
