Water and Sanitation dept senior manager arrested for double dipping salaries

Police have arrested a department of water and sanitation director who was allegedly found to be double dipping salaries.

According to the department, the director had allegedly been earning a salary from both the department and the Moses Kotane Local Municipality in North West.

She was appointed in the department in April 2022 after a post became vacant where she applied, was shortlisted, interviewed, and then appointed on merit, but seemingly did not resign from her former position with the municipality.

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The department found out about the director’s actions in September last year after the municipality inquired about the employment status of the official.

Investigation

A formal investigation was conducted by the department’s Chief Directorate: Internal Audit, and it was confirmed that the official was indeed double dipping as she was dually employed by both the department and the municipality.

“During this time, she continued to receive an income from both entities for a period of six months. The investigation revealed that she was able to achieve this by submitting applications to the municipality for leave of absence in the form of sick, vacation and study leave to justify her continued absence from the municipality while at the same time rendering full time services to the department,” it said.

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“Following the investigation, disciplinary proceedings were initiated by the department against the said official. Pursuant to several attempts to unsuccessfully delay the disciplinary proceedings, the official eventually pleaded guilty to charges of fraud and dishonesty. The chairperson’s report on sanction is currently being finalised.”

The municipality then reported the matter to the South African Police Services (SAPS) for further investigation.

The official was arrested on Monday, when the Hawks and the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) executed a Warrant of Arrest.

No tolerance for fraud

“The department upholds its stance of zero tolerance to fraud and corruption and welcomes the arrest as a sign of government’s commitment to fighting fraud and corruption,” it said.

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“This swift action should be construed as a grave general deterrent to all other officials within the Public Service as well as those members of the public who interact with Public Service Departments and Entities, that any contravention of any laws, will be met with rigorous consequences.”