13 arrested over alleged R732,000 UIF fraud in Limpopo

Thirteen suspects, including a company director, are expected to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Friday following their arrest in connection with an alleged R732,549 UIF fraud scheme.

The suspects were arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team during Operation John Vul’Gate.

The Hawks said the case relates to allegedly fraudulent UIF claims processed through the Department of Employment and Labour in Burgersfort.

The investigation began after the department reported irregularities in UIF claims. Some applicants allegedly claimed to have been employed and retrenched by various companies, but the companies reportedly had no records confirming their employment.

The Hawks said the investigation uncovered suspected fraudulent transactions and money-laundering activities linked to the proceeds of the claims, including activities allegedly involving the main suspect.

Twelve suspects were arrested on 23 September, while another individual linked to a juristic entity was apprehended. The entity has also been implicated in the investigation.

The Hawks said the investigation is ongoing and further arrests cannot be ruled out.