18 of 22 SASSA Disability Grant fraudsters were convicted by the Nelspruit Commercial Crimes Court yesterday.
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They were convicted of fraud and theft to the amount of R220 785.00. They pleaded guilty and sentenced to a fine of R20 000.00 each. Or 12 months’ imprisonment, which is wholly suspended for five years.
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The court also ordered the accused to repay the money from February 1, 2022. Between 2015 and 2017, the accused submitted fraudulent applications to SASSA. The applications were captured in Phola, Matsulu, Tonga, Mbombela, Schoemansdal and Thulamahashe offices. Eight SASSA employees who plead not guilty assisted the accused. They will appear on November 24, for trial proceedings.
The accused are as follows:
1. Sphiwe Bridget Shabangu (55), female
2. Bheki Frans Magagula (49), male
3. Nelisiwe Rose Vilanculos (48), female
4. Sipho Hilter Masina( 47), male
5. Thomas Michael Tibane (47) male
6. Collen Vusi Magagula (45), male
7. Promise Ntombikayise Mabunda (44), female
8. Norah Sibongile Nhlemo (42), female
9. Olga Nokuthula Msimango (41), female
10. Nomsa Dephaney Shiba (41), female
11. Julia Manana (39), female
12. Goodness Braayi Sithole (38), female
13. Zanele Patience Sambo (35), female
14. Thembi Tlemo 32, female
15. Sibusiso surprise Mahwayi (31), male
16. Andile Mabunda (32), male
17. Thembi Maria Sanileni (36), female and
18. John Mamini Mdaka (39) male.
