A 54-YEAR-OLD woman, suspected of defrauding SASSA of more than R7 million, was arrested at her work place in Westville on Tuesday.
According to KZN police spokesperson, Capt Nqobile Gwala, officers from the Provincial Crime Unit conducted an investigation yesterday relating to a suspect involved in fraudulent activity at Ixopo where 47 fraudulent SASSA cards were issued.
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“The investigating officer proceeded to Westville where a 54-year-old woman was arrested at her work place.”
Gwala said two cellphones, personal files, six bank cards and other documents were seized for further investigation. The woman will join two co-accused who were previously arrested.
According to Gwala, the suspect’s arrest came after a case of fraud was registered at Ixopo SAPS, where the two accused were arrested on 1 November 2019 on Margaret Street in Ixopo.
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The pair were found in possession of 47 SASSA cards and R73 000 in cash.
“The suspect was responsible for fraudulently issuing 47 SASSA cards. The total value of the amount of money defrauded is R 7 295 550.
The suspect appeared in the Durban Specialised Commercial Crime Court today, Wednesday, 26 August, explained Gwala.
The woman was granted bail of R10 000.
All three accused will appear again in the Durban Specialised Commercial Crime Court on 22 September 2020.
“It is heart-breaking to learn that there are people who are robbing pensioners and people who need to feed their families through the grant money ,” said KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula.
He went on to say more arrests can be expected as the investigation unfolds.”
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