PICTURE SUPPLIED
Two additional suspects have been arrested in connection with the illicit operation involving the repackaging and sale of expired and rotten food in Charl Cilliers, Mpumalanga.
Mark Lombard (29) and Sonnet Lombard (46), believed to be relatives of the primary suspect, have joined Pieter Grobler (41), who was arrested earlier this year.
Grobler was apprehended in February 2025 after authorities uncovered a disturbing operation at a farm in Charl Cilliers.
He was released on R8 000 bail while investigations continued.
During his arrest, a range of items — including a truck, two light delivery vehicles, seven refrigerators, and other equipment — were seized and are currently under further investigation.
On Tuesday, 01 July 2025, the Lombards were taken into custody by the Hawks’ Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team.
The operation was supported by the Tactical Response Team, Secunda K9 Unit, Charl Cilliers SAPS, Secunda Local Criminal Record Centre, and brand protection representatives.
Food unfit for human consumption
The suspects appeared briefly before the Secunda Magistrate’s Court and were released on a warning. They face charges of conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering and have been ordered to reappear in court alongside Grobler on 01 August 2025.
According to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Lombards allegedly conspired with Grobler in the fraudulent distribution of food unfit for human consumption — a scheme authorities say endangered public health for profit.
Brigadier Danie Hall, Mpumalanga’s Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks, praised the investigation team’s swift and effective work. “We will do our best as the Hawks to protect the community from falling prey to this inhumane act,” he stated.
The investigation continues as law enforcement officials work to uncover the full extent of the operation and determine whether more individuals were involved.
