Former Limpopo Nurse Arrested in SASSA Disability Grant Fraud Case

Allegations of Fraud Rock Botlokwa Community

A former professional nurse from Limpopo has found herself on the wrong side of the law after being arrested in connection with a disability grant fraud scheme that reportedly cost the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) R50,000.

Agnes Mohale, 57, who previously worked for the Department of Health at Botlokwa Clinic, was taken into custody by the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit. The arrest is the culmination of a months-long investigation into fraudulent SASSA disability grant applications in the area.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the case initially surfaced in April 2024, when it became apparent that some community members were receiving grants despite not qualifying.

“On 11 April 2024, a fraud case was opened at Botlokwa SAPS after it emerged that the accused had been assisting community members to apply for SASSA disability grants despite them not being disabled or meeting the criteria,” Ledwaba said.

How the Scheme Unfolded

Investigators allege that Mohale filled out SASSA disability application forms and even signed them on behalf of a medical doctor without authorisation. These falsified applications enabled several ineligible individuals to receive grants, causing financial losses of approximately R50,000 to SASSA.

Following the initial investigation by Botlokwa detectives, Mohale was arrested on 17 April 2024 and released on a warning by the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court. The case was later withdrawn pending further investigation and transferred to the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit.

Ledwaba confirmed that the subsequent probe produced enough evidence to directly link Mohale to the fraudulent scheme.

Hawks Step In

The case was escalated to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), also known as the Hawks, who authorised a formal arrest warrant. Mohale was taken into custody in Botlokwa and is scheduled to appear before the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court on 27 November 2025.

“Since the initial case against Ms Agnes Mohale was withdrawn pending further investigation, summons to appear in court will be served on her to join the main accused during the upcoming court appearance,” Ledwaba said.

Community Reaction and Broader Concerns

Local residents expressed shock and disappointment over the allegations, highlighting the impact on vulnerable community members who rely on disability grants for survival. Social media discussions have raised concerns about oversight mechanisms within SASSA, with calls for stricter monitoring to prevent similar scams in the future.

One community member, speaking anonymously, said, “It’s heartbreaking to think that people in genuine need might lose out because of someone abusing the system. Trust is broken, and it will take time to restore it.”

Investigation Continues

Authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with the possibility of more arrests as the probe continues. Law enforcement and anti-corruption units remain vigilant to ensure accountability and prevent further exploitation of social grants designed to support South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.

{Source: The Citizen}

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