The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is embroiled in a scandal involving allegations of widespread fraud, with a recent revelation shaking the agency to its core. An official from a Johannesburg local office, who had been evading capture, voluntarily surrendered to authorities at the Kliptown Police Station on Sunday, accompanied by her legal representation. This marks a significant development in a case that has seen multiple officials implicated in illegal activities targeting social security funds.
With the new surrender, the total number of SASSA officials suspected of various fraudulent activities has risen to eight. This follows the recent arrest of seven of her colleagues, who appeared before the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court on 18 March 2025, facing over 1,000 charges of fraud. These officials were not alone; they shared the dock with three accomplices, none of whom are employed by SASSA. All the suspects have been remanded into custody until their bail hearing set for 1 April 2025. Their apprehension came about thanks to an anonymous tip-off received by the Hawks, South Africa’s elite crime-fighting unit.
Paseka Letsatsi, the National spokesperson for SASSA, issued a statement expressing satisfaction with the recent developments, affirming their commitment to cooperating with law enforcement: “As SASSA, we will continue to work with the law enforcement agencies and provide them with all the necessary information at our disposal that they need to ensure successful prosecution of all those involved.” The agency, under the guidance of Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Tolashe, is determined to tackle fraud and corruption strains that have beset its offices nationwide.
The investigation into these fraudulent activities uncovered shocking details, including the creation of fictitious SASSA accounts. Allegedly, these accounts enabled the suspects to withdraw vast sums of cash from more than 150 fraudulent SASSA and bank cards primarily at a Shoprite supermarket in Soweto. Evidence suggests that on 4 February, the suspects made significant withdrawals, banking on the dubious accounts that had been established under false pretences.
Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), emphasised the seriousness of the case, announcing intentions to oppose any bail applications made by the arrested individuals. This pivotal phase in the legal battle underscores the diligence of the investigation, aiming to ensure that perpetrators face justice for their actions.
