It is alleged that four employees of a post office in Tseseng, Sebokeng, in the Free State channeled Sassa money into a post office account of a church belonging to one of them.

About R8m was siphoned in this manner between January 2020 and February 2022.

A painstaking investigation conducted by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s (Hawks) Priority Crime Specialised Investigation and Asset Forfeiture units saw vehicles belonging to two suspects in this matter, as well as money in different bank accounts, forfeited to the state.

The investigators continue to work around the clock to ensure that those involved have their day in court.

The Free State head of the Hawks, Major-General Mokgadi Bokaba, welcomed the forfeiture order granted by the court in relation to four vehicles purchased, allegedly with proceeds of the crime.

Bokaba applauded the joint efforts by members of the Hawks’ units and the NPA, which resulted in the order being granted.

“It is wrong for anyone to be seen living lavishly using money and assets acquired illegally. It is our mission to go after such people with vigour in order to create a country where citizens value making an honest living,” added Bokaba.