- Five officials from the Johannesburg Local Office have been dismissed after being arrested and charged with fraud related offences last year.
- The Johannesburg Local Office at 1 De Villiers Street has reopened and is fully operational after closing on 15 September 2025 to tighten controls.
The South African Social Security Agency has dismissed five officials linked to fraud and corruption at its Johannesburg Local Office.
The agency took action after eight officials were arrested and charged with fraud related offences early last year.
Five have now lost their jobs after internal disciplinary hearings.
The other three cases are at an advanced stage. They are waiting for decisions from the presiding officers.
The criminal case is still before the courts.
The Johannesburg Local Office at 1 De Villiers Street was closed on 15 September 2025.
The agency said it shut the office to strengthen internal controls, improve oversight and boost its fraud prevention systems.
It has now reopened. Services have returned to normal.
Chief Executive Officer Mr Themba Matlou said the dismissals send a strong message.
“The dismissal of five officials implicated in this matter sends a clear and unequivocal message that SASSA will not tolerate fraud or corruption in any form. Accountability is non-negotiable, and any official found guilty of misconduct will face decisive consequences. We remain committed to strengthening our systems to protect public resources and uphold the integrity of the Agency.”
Matlou also thanked the public for their patience while the office was closed.
“Furthermore, we extend our sincere appreciation to our stakeholders, clients, and the broader community for their patience and understanding during the period when the office was temporarily closed. The Johannesburg Local Office is now fully operational, and we look forward to continuing to serve beneficiaries with efficiency, dignity, and professionalism.”
During the closure, staff and services were moved to other sites in Johannesburg and nearby areas.
The agency said this was done to make sure beneficiaries could still access social grants without disruption.
It reminded the public that all its services are free and urged people to report any suspected fraud or corruption.
Pictured above: Sassa Logo
Image source: South African Social Security Agency
