Assets worth over R537 million seized from convicted thief Hildegard Steenkamp to be auctioned

The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) has been granted permission to auction off assets worth over R537 million belonging to convicted thief Hildegard Steenkamp. The seizures include 105 bottles of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, valued at R3,000 a bottle, as well as six luxurious homes and jewelry from high-end brands such as Chopard Mille Miglia, Louis Vuitton, Versace, and Breitling Breit. These assets were initially restrained by the AFU in 2018 and have now been authorized for auction by the Johannesburg Commercial Crimes Court, which is based in Palm Ridge.

Hildegard Steenkamp, the former employee who embezzled the staggering sum of money, will face the consequences of her actions as her ill-gotten wealth is sold off to repay her debts. Steenkamp’s criminal activities were uncovered, leading to her conviction, and subsequent seizure of her assets.

The auction will undoubtedly attract high-profile bidders, as the stolen wealth represents a significant value. Located in Boksburg, one of the properties to be auctioned is a luxury mansion that showcases the extravagant lifestyle Steenkamp led before her arrest.

The AFU serves as a crucial entity in the fight against financial crimes, ensuring that criminals do not benefit from their illegal activities. By seizing and selling off assets, like those belonging to Steenkamp, they aim to restore a sense of justice and provide restitution to victims.