Nicolene Elizabeth Gouvias, a 51-year-old woman, is set to appear in the Bellville Specialised Crime Court on May 6 for a bail application regarding liquor licence scams. Gouvias, who was re-arrested after failing to appear in court in 2024, is accused of serious fraud charges.
According to Hawks spokesperson Siyabulela Vukubi, Gouvias has been on the run since February 2024, and a warrant of arrest had been issued. She allegedly assisted victims from 2016 to 2019 to submit liquor licence applications, informing them that a temporary liquor licence valid for three months would be issued, and thereafter, the licence would become permanent.
Liquor Licence Scam Details
The accused requested different amounts of cash from each applicant, resulting in a combined financial loss of R166 500. Gouvias is also linked to other cases that are currently under investigation by the South African Police Service.
Investigation and Charges
The Hawks are opposing the bail application, which will be heard at the Bellville Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. The investigation into Gouvias’ activities is ongoing, and it is expected that more information will be revealed during the court proceedings.
Some of the key points in the case against Gouvias include:
- Alleged fraud involving liquor licence applications
- Combined financial loss of R166 500
- Links to other cases under investigation by the South African Police Service
As the case against Gouvias unfolds, it is likely that more information will come to light. For now, the accused remains in custody, awaiting the outcome of her bail application.
