The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) in Gauteng, in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary law enforcement team, has arrested three suspects for possession of stolen South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) cards.
Nkosinathi Donald Zwane (38), Innocent Sbusiso Shabalala (47), and Thabo Langa (37) were apprehended on Wednesday, January 8, after officers acted on intelligence and intercepted their vehicle. During the search, police discovered a black bag containing a box with approximately 249 stolen SASSA cards in the back seat. The suspects provided conflicting explanations for their possession of the cards and were taken into custody.
Police spokesperson Lt Col Lloyd Ramovha emphasized the importance of the arrests, stating, “This should serve as a strong deterrent to other offenders and reinforces our commitment to protecting the integrity of our social security system.” The suspects have been charged under the National Credit Act 13 of 2004.
Authorities believe the seized cards were intended to be fraudulently loaded with millions of rands. Their vehicle, a white Toyota, was impounded as part of the ongoing investigation. The suspects made their first court appearance on Friday, January 10, at the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court, where the case was postponed for a bail application.
Gauteng DPCI provincial head, Maj Gen Ebrahim Kadwa, hailed the arrests as a significant breakthrough in combating fraud. “This operation sends a clear message that illegal activities targeting social security systems will be met with swift and decisive action,” he said.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to dismantle syndicates involved in SASSA fraud.