Hlokomelo Mabogale |
The Hawks arrested six more suspects aged between 33 and 54 in Khobo village outside Tzaneen on Tuesday, just a day after they arrested twelve suspects in the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) disability grant corruption.
Hawks Spokesperson Matimba Maluleke said Sassa lost R300 000.00. The 18 arrested suspects are all expected to appear in the Tzaneen Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 24 February 2021 to face fraud and corruption charges. The operation to search for other outstanding suspects continues.
Meanwhile, the Hawks have warned members about the bogus unit’s member who request money from the families of the arrested suspects. Maluleke said a bogus Hawks member claiming to be Colonel Monyela allegedly contacted the families of some of the arrested persons and demanded money in order to give them bail.
“The victims allegedly paid over R40 000.00. If you can be called by someone claiming to be from the Hawks and demand money, know that you are about to be scammed. You are kindly advised to call the nearest police station.” Concluded Maluleke.
