SASSA DISMISSES FIVE OFFICIALS IMPLICATED IN FRAUD CASE AS JOHANNESBURG OFFICE RE-OPENS

By DSD Writer

• ⁠Following disciplinary processes, five South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) officials implicated in a fraud and corruption case at the Johannesburg Local Office have been fired.
• ⁠The office in De Villiers Street in Johannesburg’s central business district, which has been closed since September 2025, is now open and fully functional.
• ⁠SASSA Chief Executive Officer, Themba Matlou, said: “We remain committed to strengthening our systems to protect public resources and uphold the integrity of the agency.”

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has dismissed five officials implicated in the fraud and corruption case at the Johannesburg Local Office, reaffirming the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption and safeguarding public funds.

The dismissals follow disciplinary processes instituted after eight officials based at the Johannesburg Local Office were arrested and charged with fraud-related offences early last year.

While five officials have been dismissed, the remaining three cases are at an advanced stage pending the verdict of the presiding officers.

The related criminal case remains ongoing before the courts.

The Johannesburg Local Office, located at 1 De Villiers Street, was temporarily closed from 15 September 2025 to enable the agency to strengthen internal controls, reinforce oversight mechanisms, and enhance fraud prevention systems.

SASSA is pleased to announce that the office has been reopened and is now fully operational.

During the interim closure, SASSA implemented alternative service arrangements to ensure uninterrupted access to essential social assistance services in Johannesburg and surrounding areas. Staff and services were redeployed to key sites to prevent any disruption to beneficiaries.

SASSA Chief Executive Officer, Themba Matlou, emphasised the agency’s firm stance against wrongdoing, saying: “The dismissal of five officials implicated in this matter sends a clear and unequivocal message that SASSA will not tolerate fraud or corruption in any form.

“Accountability is non-negotiable, and any official found guilty of misconduct will face decisive consequences. We remain committed to strengthening our systems to protect public resources and uphold the integrity of the agency.”

Matlou extended SASSA’s appreciation to its stakeholders, clients, and the broader community for their patience and understanding during the period when the office was temporarily closed.

“The Johannesburg Local Office is now fully operational, and we look forward to continuing to serve beneficiaries with efficiency, dignity, and professionalism.”

SASSA reiterates that all its services are provided free of charge and encourages members of the public to report any suspected fraud or corruption.

For further information, visit www.sassa.gov.za, call the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11, or email GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za.