A Chatsworth man who allegedly robbed a Durban grandmother of her South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant money during a first date, made a first appearance in the Verulam Magistrate's Court on Monday morning.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said the 54-year-old man is charged with theft.
NPA spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson said the case was adjourned to February 17, 2025, for an ID parade and a possible bail application.
The 64-year-old Isipingo woman met the man on an online dating site called Badoo.
According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), the man fetched her on Wednesday in Isipingo and the two went to Galleria Shopping Mall in Amanzimtoti where she withdrew her SASSA grant.
Prem Balram, RUSA boss, said the couple then left the South Coast and headed to Hazelmere Dam in Verulam.
Balram said that after approximately three hours, she was driven to a garage to freshen up
"The suspect then sped off with her bag, R2,000 in cash and her mobile phone. He then deleted his profile on Badoo."
Balram said they were approached by the victim and her family for assistance.
The man was arrested on Thursday in Montford, Chatsworth.
RUSA officers found him in the bedroom of his mother's home
Balram said he told officers that he decided to speed off when the pensioner had become demanding financial assistance after they had engaged in sexual intercourse at the Hazelmere Dam.
The man allegedly told RUSA he spent R1,600 at Sibaya Casino and the remainder of R400 to purchase engine oil for his car.
KZN police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda said Verulam police were investigating a case of theft.
"This follows an incident in which an undisclosed amount of money was stolen, allegedly by the victim’s friend on Wednesday, 5 February 2024. Reports indicate that the victim left her bag inside the suspect’s vehicle and on her return she noticed that the suspect left with her belongings."
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