PSL player or conman? Bloemfontein business scam exposed

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Bloemfontein – Police in the Free State have apprehended a man allegedly involved in a string of fraud targeting local businesses by pretending to be a professional football player.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli confirmed that the suspect, operating under the name Junior Mahlangu, used the false identity to gain the trust of business owners.

“He claimed to be a player for a Premier Soccer League team in Gauteng, recently transferred to Bloemfontein to join a local Premier Soccer Team,” Kareli said.

According to the police, Mahlangu allegedly defrauded multiple establishments in the Bloemfontein area, with petrol stations, restaurants, and guest houses among his primary targets.

“Our investigation shows that he exploited his fake persona to carry out these fraudulent activities,” Kareli added.

At the time of his arrest, Mahlangu was in possession of a black Volkswagen Golf 8 with the registration number MT 51 CM GP.

The suspect appeared in court on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, facing multiple charges of theft and fraud. The matter has been postponed to 23 February 2026 for a formal bail application and further profiling.

Sergeant Kareli also urged other potential victims to come forward.

“While the investigating team has compiled a strong case, we believe there may be more victims who have not yet reported their encounters with the suspect. We urge any business owner or individual who has fallen victim to this suspect to contact Detective Sergeant Majoro or Captain Jean Marais on 082 779 8868, visit their nearest police station, or dial 08600 10111 to register a formal complaint,” he said.

The Free State Police continue to investigate the case and are appealing to the public for any additional information to assist with the matter.

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