The case of fraud against Heidedal-based Angel Foundation has been reportedly dropped after the case was drawn out. This comes after a SAPS investigation took place when the organisation’s financial issues were scrutinised.
Bloemfontein Courant reported in 2017 that Gregory Werner, the then chairperson of the Heidedal Drug Awareness Campaign (HLDAC), called into question why the foundation is still using a bank account which allegedly belongs to one of the foundation’s board members, among other things. Werner opened a case against Angel Foundation at Park Road Police Station in 2017. Angel Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the upliftment of young people in the community of Heidedal.
However, according to Angel Foundation Chairperson, Angelique Kemp, the accusations were unfounded. “The board members of the Angel Foundation and I can proudly state that no wrongdoing was found; we received a call from the SAPS confirming that the case was closed.
I never once doubted our members, operations, governance and compliance structures. These are institutions I hold dearly and account to, including our guardians, beneficiaries and the necessary authorities,” said Kemp.
She stated that the organisation was fully cooperative in the police investigation. “The Angel Foundation, in conjunction with legal advice obtained from its legal advisors, responded to every aspect of the investigation and provided information as and when required,” said Kemp.
“Although we felt violated and frustrated it was our indomitable spirit, stubborn will, common vision, unprecedented mission, the dream and commitment of each member that kept our ship on course,” expressed Kemp. The organisation remained committed to its work throughout the case. “We did not back down, nor did we fail on the promise to our beneficiaries and their parents. The team kept their hands on deck and carried on serving the community,” added Kemp.
However, according to Werner the NPA told him the case was merely “put on hold”. “Reasons given to me was that in terms of Section 2(c) of the NPO Act 71 /97 the Department of Social Development must bring the case, and not me in my personal capacity,” said Werner.
Bloemfontein Courant contacted Adv. Claudia Mathloko of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to get clarity on the matter, but the paper didn’t receive a comment by the time of going to press. – Nomaqhawe Mtebele
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