The arrests followed a coordinated police operation across Bloemfontein, Bethlehem, and parts of Gauteng.

The suspects appeared before Magistrate Mohlolo Khabisi on Monday afternoon (7/7), where bail was formally granted. They face allegations of defrauding the Department of Labour of more than R1.5 million through a syndicate that allegedly manipulated UIF claims for personal enrichment.

According to court proceedings:

• Accused 1, a manager (42) at the Department of Labour’s Bloemfontein office, was granted bail of R10,000.
• Accused 2, arrested in Gauteng, was granted R3,000 bail.
• Accused 3, 4, and 6 to 15 were each granted bail of R1,000.
• Accused 5 and 16 were released on R2,000 bail.

State Prosecutor Adv. Dansi Mpemvane informed the court the state would not oppose bail, noting relevant bail information had already been gathered during the investigation phase.

The case has been postponed to 25 August for further investigation.

Authorities allege the suspects were part of a network that submitted fraudulent UIF claims. The illicitly obtained funds were allegedly distributed among various parties, including intermediaries known as “runners”, and, in some cases, individuals whose identities were used without their knowledge.

Minister of Labour and Employment Nomakhosazana Meth expressed deep concern about the case, particularly the involvement of departmental employees.

“We are appalled by the betrayal of public trust by individuals who seek to enrich themselves through criminal means – especially when these crimes involve our own staff. Such acts not only undermine our systems but also rob deserving South Africans of support during times of need,” said Meth.

She confirmed the department has launched internal investigations and will take disciplinary action against any implicated employees. The department is also working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure full accountability.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg