Department of Employment and Labour Takes Action Against Corruption

In an impressive move to eradicate corruption in the employment and labour sector, two foreign nationals faced arrest in Mpumalanga for attempting to bribe an official of the Department of Employment and Labour on 10 August 2023. The Secunda-based Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation swiftly arrested the suspects on charges of fraud and corruption, and they appeared before the Bethal Magistrate Court the following day.

Scheme to Defraud the Department of Employment and Labour

Andile Mlaba, Deputy Director of Risk, Anti-Corruption, and Integrity Management (RAIM), explained that the case relates to a scheme to defraud the Department of Employment and Labour. Allegedly, the pair approached an official at the Bethal Labour Centre, seeking assistance with a Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) normal benefits application. They offered the official a gratification of R2,000 if she helped them.

However, the official suspected something was amiss as the department’s services are free of charge. Accordingly, she reported the matter to the RAIM Unit, leading to a joint entrapment operation with the Hawks in the South African Police Service (SAPS). After an intelligence-driven operation, the suspects were arrested immediately after making the agreed payment of R2,000.

Mpumalanga RAIM Unit’s Annual Awareness Sessions

The Mpumalanga RAIM unit conducts annual awareness sessions for all officials to create a fraud and ethical environment within the province. This initiative aligns with the department’s commitment to a zero-tolerance stance on fraud and corruption.

Encouraging the Public to Report Fraud Allegations

To bolster their efforts, the department urges the public to report any employment and labour-related fraud allegations. Suspicious activities can be reported through various channels, such as contacting the Department of Employment and Labour at 0860 022 194, the UIF Fraud hotline at 0800 601148, or the CF Fraud hotline at 0800 204974. Alternatively, concerned citizens can send an email to fraud@uif.gov.za or fraud@labour.gov.za.

This incident demonstrates the unwavering dedication of the Mpumalanga RAIM unit and the Department of Employment and Labour in their ongoing fight against corruption. By promoting an ethical and transparent environment, they continue to provide efficient services to the public and safeguard the integrity of the labour sector.