The Free State Department of Health confirmed that four of its officials were suspended over allegations of manipulating systems and hiring and paying ghost workers.

This involves three officials in Human Resources and one Covid-19 clerk.

Ongoing investigations have revealed three ghost workers were fictitiously appointed as medical interns.

Mondli Mvambi, a spokesperson of the health department, said the department acted swiftly when they learned of possible misconduct.

Four officials were suspended between February 5 and 13 with the possibility of more suspensions, should the investigation reveal anyone else’s alleged involvement.

Mvambi said the matter was referred to the Hawks for investigation on Wednesday (February 21).