A former Standard Bank consultant in Colesberg is facing fraud charges for allegedly falsifying credit applications and granting unauthorised credit facilities, causing a potential loss of over R1.8 million to the bank.
HENDRIKA Welhelmina Vorster, 39, made a brief appearance at the Colesberg Magistrate’s Court recently to face charges of fraud.
According to Northern Cape Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi, the allegations stem from Vorster’s time as a customer consultant at Standard Bank in Colesberg between November 2011 and October 2012. During this period, she allegedly opened multiple cheque, revolving credit, and loan accounts for staff members, friends, and clients, granting them credit facilities without adhering to the required protocols.
The accusations include granting credit facilities without necessary documents such as proof of income, residential addresses, identity documents, or signed agreements. Additionally, Vorster is accused of manipulating Standard Bank’s new delivery system by falsifying and inflating applicants’ income. This reportedly enabled unqualified individuals to access credit facilities they would not have otherwise received.
As a result, Standard Bank suffered a potential loss of R1,846,663.73, as many clients were unable to repay the credit extended under these false pretences.
Vorster was released on R1,000 bail on December 12 and the case has been postponed to February 19, 2025, for her to secure legal representation.
