Louis Liebenberg, the notorious diamond dealer, and his wife, Dezzi, were arrested on Tuesday night in a dramatic operation by the Hawks at a Gauteng restaurant.
Story Summary:
- Louis Liebenberg and his wife Dezzi were arrested on charges related to an alleged R4 billion diamond investment scam.
- The Hawks, in a multi-disciplinary operation, apprehended the couple at a restaurant in Gauteng, and they are expected to appear in court on Thursday.
- Liebenberg, known for his financial support of Jacob Zuma, is also facing charges of money laundering, theft, and racketeering, with more arrests expected.
Louis Liebenberg and wife arrested: Here’s what we know
The arrests stem from charges related to an alleged R4 billion diamond investment scam.
According to Brigadier Thandi Mbambo, spokesperson for the Hawks, the charges include fraud, money laundering, theft, and racketeering.
The couple’s arrest, part of a multi-disciplinary operation by the Northern Cape Hawks’ serious organised crime unit, marks a significant development in the case.
The arrest operation unfolded in the East Rand as a group of heavily armed officers entered Tonino’s restaurant, where the Liebenbergs were dining, and arrested them in front of shocked patrons.
According to an eyewitness, the couple appeared calm as they were led away in handcuffs.
“At about [19:00], a heavily armed group… walked into Tonino’s and went straight to a private room. Minutes later, they came out with Louis and Dezzi in handcuffs,” the witness said.
This high-profile arrest is connected to a diamond investment scam in which investors were allegedly defrauded out of billions.
The Hawks believe that Liebenberg masterminded the operation, while his wife was also implicated.
The couple is expected to appear in the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
This arrest may mark a turning point in Liebenberg’s controversial career.
His company, Tariomix—trading as Forever Diamonds and Gold—was placed under final liquidation earlier in the year, with assets being attached as part of efforts to recover funds for creditors.
Despite his ongoing legal battles, Liebenberg continued to pursue his political goals, though his recent arrest could severely hamper these ambitions.
In a statement, Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni praised the swift action of the law enforcement teams involved, saying:
“These arrests should send a message to all the criminals that law enforcement agencies are ready for them this festive season.”
How Liebenberg is linked to Jacob Zuma
Louis Liebenberg is no stranger to controversy, and his political ties have only added to the complexity of his public persona.
In 2023, it was revealed that Liebenberg had donated R3.2 million to former President Jacob Zuma, helping him cover legal costs associated with his private prosecution bids.
Liebenberg’s political ambitions came to light earlier in 2024 when he launched his new political party, Herbou (Rebuild), with a focus on economic reform and transferring the country’s mineral wealth to ordinary citizens.
Liebenberg also pledged his support for Zuma’s MK Party and expressed intentions to collaborate closely with the former president if elected to Parliament.
With Liebenberg and his wife facing fraud and racketeering charges, and allegations of ties to corrupt politicians and government officials looming over his case, the former diamond magnate’s downfall appears imminent.
The investigation is still ongoing, with prosecutors and investigators continuing to pursue additional suspects tied to this intricate scheme.