KZN family alleges domestic worker stole R1 million in heirloom jewellery after seven years of employment
DURBAN | A KwaZulu-Natal family has been left heartbroken after jewellery worth an estimated R1 million, treasured as part of their family’s heritage for generations, was allegedly stolen by a domestic worker they had employed for approximately seven years.
The family has turned to private security company Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) for assistance after discovering the alleged theft when they returned to their home on Sunday, 12 July 2026.
According to RUSA spokesperson Prem Balram, the family contacted the security company shortly after uncovering the incident.
“According to the employer, the suspect has been identified as Fatima Lawerence, who also uses the name Esther as reflected on her passport. She is travelling with her five-year-old daughter,” Balram said.
Balram confirmed that the missing items consist primarily of old gold jewellery, including several Kruger coins. The collection is estimated to be worth around R1 million.
Beyond its financial value, the jewellery reportedly holds immense sentimental significance, having been passed down through multiple generations of the family.
The family also reported that an additional R10,000 in cash was missing.
According to RUSA, Lawerence had been employed as the family’s domestic worker for approximately seven years before the alleged theft came to light.
Investigators believe she may be attempting to leave South Africa and travel to Malawi.
The matter remains under investigation.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Fatima Lawerence is urged to contact Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) on 086 1234 333.
No arrests had been announced at the time of publication. The allegations have not yet been tested in court, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
