Seven out of nine people who are accused of having defrauded the Unemployment Insurance Fund’s normal benefit were denied bail after they appeared in the Klerksdorp magistrate court today.
The accused were nabbed by the police’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), and police are still hunting the other two people.
One of the suspects includes an official who is an inspector in the department.
"On the face of it, it is alleged that an official was involved with others to defraud the UIF of R337 000 with a potential of the figure rising to R400 000. If indeed it is true that our official was involved, we will appeal to the law to make an example and mete the harshest sentence possible.
"We cannot afford to have officials involved in defrauding our institutions. I hope that this is a warning to all other would-be criminals within the Department of Employment and Labour family to desist from actions which can be viewed as corruption. You will be caught and we will encourage the law enforcement to ensure that those responsible pay for their actions," said the Director-General of the Department, Thobile Lamati.
Media enquiries:
Makhosonke Buthelezi: UIF Director: Communication and Marketing
071 491 7236
Makhosonke.buthelezi@labour.gov.za
OR
Musa Zondi: Acting Departmental Spokesperson
067 426 4190
Musa.Zondi@labour.gov.za
"Please continue adhering to the lockdown regulations. Wash hands or sanitise your hands regularly and wear your mask at all times.
-ENDS-
Issued by: Department of Employment and Labour
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