KEY POINTS
- SASSA fraud case involves a R260 million ($14.3 million) scheme and 10 suspects.
- SASSA employees were implicated in fraud and cybercrime.
- NPA adds 1,000 charges and anticipates more arrests.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has intensified its manhunt for an 11th suspect in the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) fraud case, following the arrest of 10 individuals involved in a R260 million ($14.3 million) fraud scheme.
According to SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi, the 11th suspect, who is a female SASSA employee, remains at large.
The 10 arrested suspects appeared at the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court for their bail application on Tuesday, March 18.
They are facing charges of cybercrime, fraud, and theft for allegedly creating fake profiles and committing identity fraud to withdraw funds from SASSA pay points.
“The net is widening, and we will not stop until all these individuals are arrested,” Letsatsi said.
“We currently have 10 suspects in custody, seven of whom are SASSA employees, and three are outsiders who worked with SASSA officials to defraud the system.”
Charges pile up as investigations continue
The State has added over 1,000 charges to the case. However, additional charges and arrests might emerge as they further their investigation.
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane declared on Monday that the State would not grant bail, as they also held a high-case against the defendants.
“More arrests are possible, and we are exploring the option of adding additional charges,” Mjonondwane said.
The suspects’ names include Phumzile Dlamini, Paul Bones, Phumelele Myeza, Keamogetswe Ledwaba, and Phiwe Mkhuzangwe. They were arrested in Johannesburg, Soweto, and Lenasia.
Social development committee calls for accountability
Bridget Masango, chairperson of the portfolio committee on social development, welcomed the bust. He also called it a necessary step to combat corruption within SASSA.
“When corruption thrives in institutions that provide essential services like SASSA, it is the vulnerable beneficiaries who suffer the most,” she said.
According to IOL, the matter has been postponed until April 1, awaiting the arrest of the remaining suspect.
The investigation underscores the importance of transparency in social welfare systems. Furthermore, it highlights the ongoing efforts to curb fraud within government agencies.
