Loan scam trial | Thousands of alleged victims may be refunded

JOHANNESBURG - Stellenbosch University Law Clinic is set to represent thousands of victims defrauded by controversial businessman Damian Malander through his company, Lifestyle Direct Group International.

It's alleged the company duped South Africans into signing up for services instead of getting loans.

Malander already has two judgments against him and owes Nedbank R1.1-million.

If the class action is successful, he will have to refund the thousands he allegedly scammed.

"The case relates to defrauding of thousands of consumers by Lifestyle Direct Group International between the years of 2015 to 2019," said Odwa Nweba.

"The law clinic applied for a certification of the class action in the Western Cape High Court in 2019.

"A class action was certified in the Western Cape High Court in 2021."