Overview
- Police say the total number of accused has risen to 11 after a 41-year-old suspect handed himself in at the Polokwane police station.
- Six relatives and associates were arrested this week in Limpopo and Sebokeng, including the husband and siblings of former sergeant Rachel Kutumela, with bail applications set for March 25.
- Prosecutors allege the group took out life and funeral policies on about 10 victims who were later killed, with payouts of roughly R10 million from institutions including Absa, Standard Bank, Capitec, Hollard, Avbob, Assupol, Old Mutual, One Life and Clientele.
- The newly arrested six face 47 charges encompassing murder, fraud, money laundering and related offences, while Kutumela and three earlier co-accused remain in custody after prior arrests.
- The trial of Kutumela and key co-accused has been transferred to the Polokwane High Court for October 5–30, 2026, as police continue a wider probe that has identified syndicates and dozens of similar cases countrywide.