Gugulethu Pensioner Falls Victim to Identity Theft, Loses SASSA Grants

Gugulethu Pensioner Falls Victim to Identity Theft, Loses SASSA Grants. Identity theft continues to be a growing concern in South Africa, with yet another victim losing access to their rightful South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) grants. A 63-year-old pensioner from Gugulethu has been left without financial support after discovering that his social grant payments were being collected by someone else in Gauteng who had access to his personal identification details.

Pensioner Left Without Grant Due to Fraudulent Activity

Former bus driver, Khakhaza Silimela, qualified for his Sassa pension grant three years ago. However, he only applied for it in January 2024, assuming he could rely on his income while still working past 60. To his shock, he learned that his Sassa grant had been fraudulently claimed by someone else, leaving him struggling without an income.

“I came here to lay a case against Sassa because I don’t get my pension grant. When I applied on 7 January, I was told that my grant money was being paid to someone in Johannesburg who had all my personal documents,” Silimela explained.

Impact of Identity Theft on the Victim

Silimela, now unemployed and without an alternative income source, faces severe financial hardship.

“The problem is, I don’t get money. Every time I ask about my grant, I receive different stories. That’s why I came to open a case because I am tired of waiting,” he expressed.

Sassa Urges Victims to Report Identity Fraud Cases

SASSA authorities acknowledge the presence of identity theft in the system. While they were unaware of Silimela’s case specifically, they encouraged all affected individuals to report fraudulent activities.

“It’s an unfortunate situation. We know that identity fraud happens. Beneficiaries must follow proper channels and report fraud to both Sassa and law enforcement agencies,” stated Paseka Letsatsi, Sassa Spokesperson.

Government Crackdown on Social Grant Fraud

Sassa insists that it is actively working to combat fraud across the country, making strides in resolving fraudulent grant claims.

“We have security measures in place. The issue is not too extensive when considering the numbers. In 2023/2024, we recorded 138 cases of fraud and successfully resolved 123 cases. Although the numbers are not alarming, each case is taken seriously,” said Themba Matlou, Acting Sassa Chief Executive.

Identity Fraud Stealing From the Vulnerable

The agency emphasized its commitment to holding fraudsters accountable, as these illegal activities deprive vulnerable South Africans of their rightful benefits. “We are clamping down on fraudsters who are essentially taking food out of the mouths of people like Silimela,” Matlou concluded.

Sassa Fraud Prevention Measures

To prevent social grant fraud, Sassa has implemented stricter security measures, including:

• Biometric verification for grant applicants.
• Strengthening the fraud reporting system.
• Collaborating with law enforcement agencies to track fraudulent grant activities.

What to Do If You Are a Victim of Identity Theft?

If you suspect identity fraud involving your Sassa grant, follow these steps:

• Report the fraud immediately to your nearest Sassa office.
• Open a case with the police and obtain a case number.
• Provide proof of your identity to Sassa for verification.
• Monitor your bank transactions for unauthorized deductions.

Conclusion

The case of Khakhaza Silimela highlights the ongoing struggle against identity theft in South Africa, affecting vulnerable citizens who depend on their Sassa grants for survival. As fraud cases continue to emerge, it is crucial for beneficiaries to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.