Dad’s neglect led to 166 counts of fraud – accused

AN EAST London woman has blamed the father of her children for neglecting them which then caused her to def her employer R3.7-million.

Fiona Bosch appeared in the East London Regional Court where she pleaded guilty to 166 counts of fraud. of

Her attorney, Frans Maritz, read into the record Bosch’s plea in which she admitted to defrauding MC Syncro South African (Pty) Ltd.

MC Syncro is a company which supplies parts to vehicle manufacturers, such as Mercedes-Benz SA.

Bosch was a business administration clerk.

“I had access to MC Syncro’s internet banking facility with my own password. I confirm that I misappropriated funds from my employer,” she stated.

“In total, I benefited by transferring R3.7-million to various accounts. I did not have permission to transfer the funds.”

Bosch admitted her actions were wrongful and unlawful.

“I took the money mainly to support my children’s expenses which the father neglected to do the past 12 years.”

Prosecuting Advocate Luthando Makoyi said the state accepted Bosch’s plea.

Magistrate Twanet Olivier found Bosch guilty of fraud.

“I am satisfied that you understand the contents of your statement as read by your attorney. As such, you are found guilty,” Olivier said.

Maritz requested that Bosch’s bail be extended.

He said reports from a probation officer and the department of correctional services would be needed.

Olivier extended her bail of R10 000 and postponed the matter to October 21 for the reports to be heard followed by sentencing.

Makoyi asked his colleague, Advocate Nicole Peters of the Asset Forfeiture Unit, to step in. Peters said the state wanted to recover the funds from Bosch and asked Olivier to consider an application for a confiscation order.

Olivier said she would give judgment on Peters’s application to confiscate Bosch’s assets on September 12. —