The Directorate of Forensic Audit in the Department of the Premier, as part of a national inter-agency anti-corruption drive, has assisted in investigations leading to the arrests over the remainder of this week of 52 Provincial Government staff. These 52 civil servants stand accused of corruption in terms of Social Security, benefitting by amounts of between R760 and R8,000, to a total of over R 129,000.
Premier Rasool said: "It is unacceptable that money meant for the aged, the disabled and vulnerable children is fraudulently taken by those who work for the Provincial Government, such as nurses, teachers and clerks.
"Corruption undermines democracy and the capacity of the State to deliver. Corruption makes criminals out of ordinary people and it reduces our precious and limited resources. As a Provincial Government we have instituted and will pursue disciplinary processes against these 52 staff who now face criminal proceedings. They have removed themselves from the principles and objectives of this Government by their shortsighted and selfish actions.
"All our staff must know that we will act against them if they are stealing from the State. We will not tolerate corruption or the theft of stationery, or linen or even toilet paper from state institutions.
"You are also making yourself guilty of a crime when you 'steal time' from the government when you loiter when you should be working, when your breaks are longer than stipulated, through unwarranted abseteeism and late-coming and when you don't work as hard as you should.
"The majority of staff who work loyally and hard for iKapa Elihlumayo and the Home for All; our respect and gratitude go to you. If you are aware of any abuses in our system, please report these to our toll-free fraud hotline on 080 122 65 45."
All media enquiries should be directed to Shado Twala. Her contact details are: stwala@pgwc.gov.za or cell 083 640 6771 or 021 483 5642
