5 Joburg SASSA officials implicated in fraud given the chop

Five South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) officials in Johannesburg have been dismissed after they were implicated in fraud and corruption.

The dismissals follow internal disciplinary processes instituted after eight officials were arrested last year on fraud-related charges.

The arrests led to the temporary closure of the SASSA local office, while fraud-prevention and oversight mechanisms were put in place. 

The office has since been reopened and resume with serving the public.

Of the eight arrested individuals, five have now been fired while disciplinary proceedings against the three remaining are at an advanced stage pending a verdict from the presiding officers.

SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi confirmed that the criminal cases are currently before courts.

“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.”