Breaking Developments in High-Profile Case
Disgraced lawyer Peet Viljoen was taken into custody by members of the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit moments after landing at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday evening. The 57-year-old arrived on a flight from Newark, New Jersey, following his deportation from the United States after approximately 100 days in detention.
Background on Peet Viljoen’s Legal Troubles
Viljoen was struck from the attorneys’ roll in 2011 by the Law Society of the Northern Provinces after findings of unprofessional conduct. He has remained a figure of public interest due to earlier associations with property-related allegations dating back to 2010.
The current charges centre on events from May 2010 involving the Johannesburg Property Company. Authorities allege that several properties owned by the company were unlawfully sold to unsuspecting purchasers without the company receiving any payment for the transactions.
The United States Detention and Deportation
Viljoen and his wife, Mel Viljoen, a former reality television personality, faced separate legal issues in the US. The couple was arrested in Boca Raton, Florida, in March 2026 on allegations of aggravated grand retail theft involving groceries valued at over $5,300. Viljoen spent nearly 100 days in immigration detention before being deported.
Details of the Airport Arrest
Police spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale confirmed the arrest at OR Tambo International Airport. Viljoen was apprehended on a warrant related to longstanding South African charges. He is expected to appear in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Thursday.
Photo by Sasun Bughdaryan on Unsplash
Charges Facing Viljoen
The charges include fraud, theft, forgery, uttering, and contravention of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act. These stem from the alleged fraudulent property sales more than 15 years ago. Several co-accused in the original matter reportedly pleaded guilty in earlier proceedings, though the case against Viljoen has continued.
Context of the 2010 Property Fraud Allegations
Investigators claim the transactions involved the illegal transfer of Johannesburg Property Company assets. Bona fide purchasers were left without clear title, while the company suffered financial losses. The matter has resurfaced following Viljoen’s return to South Africa.
Public and Media Reaction
The arrest has drawn significant media attention given Viljoen’s past profile and the couple’s previous reality television appearances. Reports highlight the contrast between earlier public personas and the serious legal consequences now unfolding.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Viljoen’s first court appearance is scheduled for the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. Legal observers anticipate further details on bail applications and the progression of the case. The Hawks continue to investigate related aspects of the long-running matter.
Photo by Scott Blake on Unsplash
Broader Implications for Accountability
Cases such as this underscore ongoing efforts by South African authorities to address historical commercial crimes. The involvement of the Hawks reflects prioritisation of complex fraud investigations that span multiple years.
Looking Ahead
As proceedings unfold, further information is expected to emerge regarding the full scope of the allegations and any additional evidence. The matter remains a notable example of cross-border legal consequences intersecting with domestic investigations.
