A bank teller from Potchefstroom has been processed at the Swartruggens Magistrates’ Court this week, after she was accused of stealing some lottery winnings from a client who had recently won a jackpot.

The bank job: Lottery winner stung by bank teller

Nonhlanhla Phillona Matinyane, aged (29), was hauled in front of a judge on Wednesday following her arrest. The accused was granted R1 500 bail and the case was postponed until 8 April. It’s understood the affected client was alerted to ‘substantial amounts of money’ disappearing from her account after scooping the big-money prize.

An investigation into what had transpired uncovered the brazen attempts the young teller made to profit from her lucky customer. Once they traced the crime to the employee, she was arrested for theft.

Police in Potchefstroom ‘followed the money’

SAPS in North West issued a statement on the matter, confirming the vital details of the case. The police in Swarttuggens have been praised for their sharp work, which left no loose ends untied:

“Matinyane was arrested on Monday 9 March after investigations revealed she allegedly stole money from a client, who previously won an undisclosed amount of money in the National Lottery. The client, aged 46, was alerted by her financial advisor that withdrawals with substantial amounts of money were made from her account.” “Thus, the alleged theft was reported to the bank and the police. Following investigation into the matter, the suspect was arrested for theft. The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated the Swartruggens police for their quick response and investigation which led to the arrest.” Statement from SAPS in Potchefstroom, North West