Thousands of illegally held South Africa Social Security Agency (Sassa) cards, identity documents and cash were seized from two cash loan businesses in a joint police, Sassa and the National Credit Regulator (NCR) intelligence driving operation which started this morning (Tuesday).
Capt Kay Makhubela, a SAPS spokesperson, says they arrested 11 people.
Four vehicles and four unlicensed firearms and ammunition were confiscated during the raid.
This bust was made after police received complaints from various customers about the micro-loan providers.
“These businesses were in possession of the Sassa cards and ID books of these people,” says Makhubela.
Police immediately contacted Sassa officials and Sassa and NCR to help them conduct the raid, which started at 5.45am.
These micro-loan companies allegedly demanded their customers hand over their Sassa cards and IDs.
According to Makhubela, the businesses were withdrawing clients’ money along with a 34 per cent interest fee.
Makhubela claims the unauthorised possession of such documents breaches the National Credit Act section 93.
“We can confirm it was a successful operation,” says Makhubela.
“Cases of possession of an unlicensed firearm, contravening the NCA and fraud have been opened against the 11 suspects.
“They will appear in court within 48 hours of the arrest,” says Makhubela.
Further investigations will reveal if the firearms and vehicles were reported stolen.
Makhubela says government is helping Sassa card owners whereas these suspects are taking away this privilege.
“Criminals should be made aware that we mean war against any misconducts,” he adds.
Three of the victims came forward to share their story.
Orias Edwards and Petros Tshabalala, both 67 years old, say they had no control of how much the micro-loan company withdrew from the cards.
They were present when the business was raided by SAPS this morning.
Natasha Brummer (44), who receives a Sassa disability grant, says she was surprised to find the business closed when she arrived at their premises just after 11am.
“We depend on our grants and these people shouldn’t take that away from us, they should rather be honest.
“Now our cards and IDs are in the possession of the police as evidence.
“How are we going to get our grants after this?” she asks.
No comment was received from Sassa at the time of publishing.
