Fall from grace: Aviation boss Jonathan Wolpe goes from rubbing shoulders with Joburg elite to being accused of fraud
Jonathan Wolpe appeared in the Joburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Wednesday morning where he is facing charges of fraud and theft amounting to R5 million.
United Aviation Group CEO Jonathan Wolpe. Image - Facebook
JOHANNESBURG - A man who rubs shoulders with Joburg’s elite and prides himself on being the brainchild behind an annual Joburg horse derby event is now accused of fraud.
Jonathan Wolpe appeared in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Wednesday morning, where he is facing charges of fraud and theft amounting to R5 million.
This after he allegedly defrauded a DRC-based company that was contracted to fly delegates across the country during their presidential elections last year.
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United Aviation Group CEO, Jonathan Wolpe, handed himself over to the Hawks on Monday after allegedly defrauding a DRC-based company.
Wolpe is known for his lavish lifestyle.
The Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court heard that his properties amount to almost R30 million.
He also has an appetite for the expensive sport of horse riding, and hosts the annual United Aviation Group SA derby in Joburg which is a champagne-popping extravagant event.
In one of their videos posted on social media, Wolpe explained his passion for horses.
"I have a passion for equestrian sport. I have ridden horses all my life, since I was five years old, and the derby is one of the most prestigious events of the year."
Wolpe was granted bail of R20,000 and the case adjourned to next year for further investigation.