SASSA WELCOMES ARRESTS OF FOUR SUSPECTS, INCLUDING TWO OFFICIALS AND A FORMER OFFICIAL
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Gauteng has welcomed the arrests of four suspects, including two current officials and one former official, in connection with alleged fraud amounting to approximately R4.9 million.
The arrests were made by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Investigating Unit following an extensive investigation into allegations relating to the unlawful processing and approval of social grants, in contravention of Section 21 of the Social Assistance Act and Regulation 10 of the Social Assistance Act 13 of 2004.
The arrests follow a coordinated investigation involving the Agency’s Fraud and Compliance Unit, working in close collaboration with law enforcement authorities.
“We welcome these arrests and commend the SAPS Provincial Investigating Unit, together with our internal Fraud and Compliance teams, for their decisive and coordinated action. SASSA maintains a zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption. Any official who abuses their position to defraud the Agency not only undermines public trust but also deprives deserving beneficiaries of critical social assistance. Such conduct will be met with the full might of the law, including criminal prosecution and internal disciplinary processes,” he said.
Mohlamonyane emphasised that safeguarding public funds remains a top priority for the Agency and expressed hope the arrests will serve as a deterrent to others who may contemplate similar misconduct.
“SASSA will not hesitate to act against anyone who seeks to manipulate the social assistance system for personal gain. Protecting the integrity of the social grant system and ensuring that assistance reaches the rightful beneficiaries is non-negotiable,” he added.
SASSA says it remains focused on strengthening internal controls, enhancing monitoring mechanisms and intensifying consequence management to root out fraud and protect the integrity of the social assistance system.
The Agency has encouraged members of the public and employees to report suspected fraudulent activities to their nearest SASSA office or directly to law enforcement authorities. Whistleblowers may also report wrongdoing anonymously