Cooking the books

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝟭𝟵 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯. In the leafy suburbs of Pretoria, there’s a growing tide of mistrust and frustration as a once-respected chartered accountant finds herself in the midst of a forensic investigation. Her disheartened clients allege disturbing delays and puzzling bank withdrawals in the winding up of deceased estates. The investigator is sifting through mountains of paperwork and bank accounts, tracking transactions that link this sophisticated, jet-setting professional and her bookkeeper to a web of hidden irregularities. These allegedly include forged signatures and stolen identities, mysterious changes in company papers and unexplained cash withdrawals and deposits. But this alleged scamster wasn’t just taking from any client: she seemingly targeted those at their most vulnerable – long-time clients and friends dealing with the passing of a loved one. While both the accountant and the bookkeeper have gone to ground, they blame each other for the crimes and misdemeanours of which they stand accused. Carte Blanche investigates.