SASSA WELCOMES ARRESTS IN 4.9 MILLION FRAUD CASE AS AGENCY REAFFIRMS ZERO-TOLERANCE APPROACH

By DSD News

• The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) confirms the arrest of four suspects, including two current officials and one former official, linked to an alleged R4.9 million social grant fraud scheme in Gauteng.
• Coordinated investigation between SASSA’s Fraud and Compliance Unit and the SAPS Provincial Investigating Unit leads to arrests in Heidelberg and Soshanguve, with suspects appearing before the Soshanguve Magistrates’ Court.
• The Agency strengthens internal controls, monitoring systems and consequence management processes, while encouraging whistleblowers and the public to report fraud anonymously to help safeguard public funds and ensure that social assistance reaches rightful beneficiaries.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Gauteng has welcomed the arrest of four suspects, including two current officials and a former official, in connection with alleged fraud valued at approximately R4.9 million.

The arrests were carried out on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Investigating Unit following an extensive probe into the unlawful processing and approval of social grants. The alleged activities contravene Section 21 of the Social Assistance Act and Regulation 10 of the Social Assistance Act 13 of 2004.

One suspect was apprehended at a workshop in Heidelberg, while the remaining three were arrested in Soshanguve. The suspects are expected to appear in the Soshanguve Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 25 February 2026.

According to SASSA, the arrests follow a coordinated investigation between the Agency’s Fraud and Compliance Unit and law enforcement authorities, reflecting strengthened oversight and collaboration to curb fraud within the social assistance system.

SASSA Acting Regional Executive Manager in Gauteng, Mr Godfrey Mohlamonyane, welcomed the developments, commending both SAPS investigators and internal teams for their decisive action.
“We welcome these arrests and commend the SAPS Provincial Investigating Unit, together with our internal Fraud and Compliance teams, for their coordinated response. SASSA maintains a zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption. Any official who abuses their position not only undermines public trust but also deprives deserving beneficiaries of critical social assistance,” he said.

emphasised that safeguarding public funds remains a top priority and expressed hope that the arrests would serve as a deterrent to individuals who may attempt to manipulate the system for personal gain. He added that the Agency would continue to pursue both criminal prosecution and internal disciplinary measures where wrongdoing is identified.

The Agency reiterated its commitment to strengthening internal controls, enhancing monitoring mechanisms and intensifying consequence management processes to protect the integrity of the social grant system.

Members of the public and employees are encouraged to report any suspected fraud or grant-related enquiries through SASSA’s toll-free line on 0800 60 10 11 or via email at GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za. Fraud can also be reported anonymously through the SASSA Fraud Hotline on 0800 60 10 11, the National Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701 or via Integrity@publicservicecorruptionhotline.org.za, as well as through any law enforcement agency.