Johannesburg — April 29, 2025
The bail hearing for eleven individuals — including eight employees of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) — resumed today at the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court in connection with the staggering R260 million SASSA fraud scandal that has rocked the nation.
The accused are facing an overwhelming 1,300 criminal charges, ranging from fraud and theft to cybercrime and identity theft, in what authorities describe as a highly organized operation targeting public funds meant for the most vulnerable citizens.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is strongly opposing bail, arguing the suspects are linked to Schedule 5 offences, given the financial losses involved. Prosecutors warned of the risk of flight and the potential for interference with ongoing investigations.
Human Faces Behind the Headlines
Among the accused is Phiwe Mkhuzangwe, who made an emotional plea to the court, asserting her innocence and stressing that she had voluntarily stayed put despite knowing a warrant was out for her arrest. She cited her role as the primary caregiver for her terminally ill mother, appealing to the court’s compassion.
Another accused — currently enrolled in an MBA program — voiced concern that the prolonged detention has derailed their academic progress, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Allegations of Witness Tampering
In a twist during the hearing, the defense raised alarms about witness tampering, alleging that a senior SASSA official had visited the accused in custody to obtain signatures on confidential documents, potentially undermining the integrity of the investigation.
Fraud Uncovered at Soweto Pay Points
The investigation, which dates back to 2024, uncovered a trail of fraudulent SASSA and bank cards — over 150 in total — used to siphon off millions in social grants. Much of the stolen money was allegedly withdrawn at a single Shoprite outlet in Soweto, highlighting the boldness and scale of the operation.
The case has faced repeated delays due to the sheer volume of evidence, including forensic audits, surveillance footage, and bank records — all of which paint a picture of systemic exploitation of social welfare infrastructure.
The bail hearing continues this week, with public attention sharply focused on what could become one of the largest financial crimes involving public funds in recent South African history.
