Two former Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) employees, a man and a woman, and an external accomplice appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court today for sentencing on fraud charges.

According to Krugersdorp News, seven employees from the Human Resources Unit of the Gauteng West District Office were involved in a ghost employee scheme.

Fraud uncovered

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed the scheme defrauded the department of around R3.8m, uncovered during an internal risk investigation.

“A criminal case was initially opened in 2016, which ultimately led to the arrest of the two former employees alongside their external accomplice, who is the brother of one of the employees,” Mabona said.

Further disciplinary action

The internal investigation implicated five more employees. After a disciplinary process, they were dismissed.

“These dismissals were challenged at the Public Service Sectoral Bargaining Council. The department successfully defended its actions at both the Labour Court and the Labour Appeal Court, with the decision upheld in January,” Mabona added.

Convictions and accountability

The Johannesburg Commercial Crimes Court sitting at Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court found the three guilty of numerous charges, including forgery and theft.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane welcomed the outcome. “This case demonstrates our commitment to protecting public funds and upholding integrity. We initiated the investigation, took decisive disciplinary action and ensured justice was served. It should also serve as a deterrent for anyone considering criminal activity in our sector.

“The department has strengthened its internal controls and risk management systems to prevent, detect and act decisively against unethical behaviour while promoting a culture of accountability across all offices and schools,” Chiloane said.

The sentencing is set to continue tomorrow.

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