The Joburg Property Company (JPC) says the arrest of Petrus ‘Peet’ Jacobus Viljoen marks a significant development in efforts to bring those implicated in an alleged City property fraud scheme to book.
Viljoen, 57, appeared in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Thursday after being arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit at OR Tambo International Airport on 16 June. The case was postponed to 26 June for a bail application.
The case stems from investigations launched after the Joburg Property Company and the City of Johannesburg uncovered alleged fraud and theft involving municipal properties in around 2010.
JPC Chief Executive Officer Musah Makhunga said the arrest was a significant step towards accountability.
“This development demonstrates that no matter how much time passes, accountability and the protection of public assets remain non-negotiable,” he said.
Makhunga said JPC had consistently supported law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice and ensuring those implicated in unlawful conduct face due legal process.
“Our responsibility is to safeguard municipal assets and protect the interests of residents who rely on these assets to support service delivery and economic development,” he added.
According to investigators, 33 City-owned properties of varying sizes, zoning classifications and values were allegedly transferred and sold unlawfully. Some properties were reportedly transferred to unsuspecting bona fide purchasers, while the City allegedly received no payment, resulting in substantial financial losses.
The matter was reported to authorities in both Johannesburg and Tshwane, with JPC and the City of Johannesburg among the complainants.
The Hawks subsequently conducted an extensive investigation, identifying several individuals allegedly involved in the scheme. Criminal charges have since been brought against multiple accused persons, including a former JPC employee.
In parallel with the criminal investigation, JPC successfully pursued civil action in the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria, securing orders that enabled the reversal of the fraudulent transfers. Working with the Deeds Registries, all affected properties were restored and re-registered in the name of the City of Johannesburg.
JPC said the recovery of the properties was an important step in protecting public assets and maintaining confidence in municipal governance.
The entity said it would continue working with law enforcement agencies while refraining from commenting further on matters before the courts.
Saturday Star