SASSA dismisses 65 officials as fraud crackdown intensifies

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has dismissed 65 officials following disciplinary proceedings involving fraud and misconduct since April 2025, as the agency steps up efforts to protect public funds and restore trust in the social grant system.

The figures, released by SASSA, show that the agency received 134 cases involving alleged wrongdoing during the period. Of these, 106 have been finalised, while 28 remain pending.

The crackdown comes as millions of South Africans rely on social grants to help cover essential expenses, including food, transport and other household needs.

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou said the dismissals demonstrated the agency’s determination to hold officials accountable when they are found guilty of misconduct.

Eastern Cape records the highest number of dismissals

The provincial breakdown shows that the Eastern Cape recorded the highest number of dismissals, with 19 officials losing their jobs since April 2025.

Mpumalanga and Gauteng followed with 13 dismissals each, while KwaZulu-Natal recorded 11.

The figures highlight the importance of strengthening oversight across provincial offices and ensuring that reported cases are investigated and resolved.

According to Matlou, the agency’s anti-fraud strategy is helping strengthen its ability to detect, investigate and address misconduct within its operations.

He said SASSA was working to move beyond identifying irregularities towards ensuring that disciplinary processes are concluded and appropriate consequences follow.

Not every case resulted in dismissal

Although 65 officials were dismissed, the remaining finalised cases resulted in different outcomes.

These included written warnings, final written warnings and suspensions without pay. Some officials resigned while disciplinary proceedings were under way.

SASSA also reported that 16 cases were withdrawn, while four officials were found not guilty.

Matlou emphasised that disciplinary action must follow fair procedures, with each case assessed on its own merits and officials afforded their applicable rights.

The distinction is important because the number of dismissals represents officials who faced disciplinary proceedings and were dismissed, rather than every individual reported for alleged wrongdoing.

SASSA officials face death threats

Beyond the disciplinary cases, Matlou raised concerns about death threats directed at officials dealing with allegations of misconduct.

He condemned attempts to intimidate or obstruct employees carrying out their responsibilities, saying the agency would support officials who act within the law and in the public interest.

SASSA has committed to strengthening internal controls, improving its investigative capacity and applying disciplinary measures consistently when wrongdoing is established.

The agency also intends to continue working through established investigative, disciplinary and law-enforcement processes where necessary.

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