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SASSA closes Johannesburg office after fraud arrests, reschedules services

JOHANNESBURG — September 2025

A key SASSA office in Johannesburg has closed indefinitely after eight staff members were suspended for alleged fraud. The shutdown comes during the crucial rollout of nationwide biometric enrolment and income verification checks.

The South African Social Security Agency confirmed staff suspensions and closure due to “operational challenges” affecting services. (SASSA statement)

Officials were arrested and fraud charges were laid at Lenasia Magistrate’s Court, SASSA announced. The agency maintains a “zero-tolerance approach for malfeasance,” according to its social media posts.

This impacts vulnerable Gauteng residents needing face-to-face assistance for new applications and legally required income reviews starting September 2025.

SASSA is redirecting staff to three alternative locations with adjusted operating times:

• Westbury: Monday-Tuesday (08:00-15:00)
• Cosmo City: Thursday-Friday (08:00-15:00)
• South Hills: Monday only (08:00-15:00)

Additional monthly outreach sessions will serve affected suburbs:

• South Hills/Glenanda: 17 Sep, 8 & 22 Oct, 12 & 26 Nov, 10 Dec 2025
• Malvern/Jeppestown: 10 Sep, 1 & 15 Oct, 5 Nov, 3 Dec 2025
• Berea/Yeoville/Braamfontein/Hillbrow: 23 Sep, 15 Oct, 19 Nov, 23 Dec 2025

Beneficiaries should verify exact dates and times at SASSA offices before visiting.