SASSA dismisses 4 officials over R33 million social grants fraud

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has dismissed four officials from its Nebo Local Office in Sekhukhune, Limpopo, after they were found guilty of their involvement in a R33 million social grants fraud scheme.

In a statement, SASSA said an internal investigation uncovered how the officials manipulated the agency’s social grants system in collaboration with external syndicates, resulting in fraudulent transactions valued at R33 million.

Appeals rejected

Following the investigation, disciplinary proceedings were instituted against the four employees, resulting in their dismissal.

The officials appealed the sanction, but SASSA’s Appeals Committee upheld the dismissals, citing the seriousness of the misconduct and the need to protect public funds.

Zero tolerance for fraud

SASSA said the dismissals reflect its zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption and reaffirm its commitment to ensuring social grant payments reach the rightful beneficiaries.

Regional Executive Manager Mapupula Pheeha said corruption within the agency directly affects South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.

“Fraudulent activities undermine the trust placed in SASSA and deprive vulnerable communities of much-needed support. We will continue to act decisively against any employee found guilty of misconduct,” said Pheeha.

Measures being strengthened

The agency said it is implementing additional measures to prevent similar incidents in future, including enhanced monitoring, stricter internal controls and ongoing ethics training for staff.

According to SASSA, the action taken against the four officials demonstrates its commitment to rooting out corruption, holding employees accountable and safeguarding public funds intended for millions of South Africans who rely on social grants.