SASSA Dismisses Five Officials Amidst R260 Million Fraud Scandal

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has dismissed five officials implicated in a large-scale fraud and corruption case at its Johannesburg office, signaling a firm stance against misconduct and the protection of public funds. The dismissals follow internal disciplinary proceedings initiated after eight officials were arrested in 2025 on fraud-related charges.

Details of the Fraud

The scandal involves the illicit withdrawal of approximately R260 million using more than 150 fraudulent SASSA and bank cards at a Shoprite supermarket in Soweto. According to Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the suspects allegedly created fictitious SASSA accounts to facilitate these fraudulent withdrawals from various supermarkets across Gauteng. Source: IOL

Office Closure and Reopening

In response to the arrests, SASSA temporarily closed its Johannesburg Local Office at 1 De Villiers Street from September 15, 2025, to strengthen internal controls, oversight mechanisms, and fraud prevention systems. Source: IOL The office has since reopened and is fully operational, with alternative service arrangements implemented during the closure to ensure uninterrupted service to beneficiaries. Staff and services were temporarily redeployed to key sites in Johannesburg and surrounding areas to minimize disruption.

Ongoing Cases and SASSA’s Commitment

While five officials have been dismissed, disciplinary proceedings against the remaining three arrested individuals are ongoing, pending court judgments. Source: EWN SASSA CEO Themba Matlou emphasized that the dismissals demonstrate the agency’s commitment to accountability. Source: IOL Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA spokesperson, added that the agency will not tolerate fraud or corruption in any form, and any official found guilty of misconduct will face decisive consequences. Source: EWN

Recent Developments

As of February 27, 2026, the criminal cases are currently before the courts. Source: EWN AllAfrica also reported on the dismissals, confirming the action taken by SASSA.