Major Covid-19 Relief Fraud Uncovered: SIU Seizes Assets Linked to R27 Million Scam
Covid-19 cash looters busted as SIU seizes luxury cars and homes linked to R27m scam
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The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has arrested individuals linked to a R27 million fraud scheme involving the UIF Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) during the Covid-19 pandemic. Fumu Mkalira Msiska and others allegedly created ghost employees to siphon funds, leading to the seizure of luxury vehicles and properties across South Africa.
- 01Fumu Mkalira Msiska and his wife, Gladness Mkhonto Msiska, were charged with fraud for allegedly siphoning R26.9 million from the UIF-TERS scheme.
- 02The SIU has seized five luxury vehicles, including a 2019 Land Rover Range Rover and a BMW X6, as part of the investigation.
- 03The fraudulent scheme involved creating between 587 and 773 ghost employees each month from April to September 2020.
- 04In a separate case, businessman Ente Thibello Sekhoto was convicted for fraudulently claiming R201,812.36 from the UIF-TERS scheme.
- 05The SIU is working with the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure justice for those involved in the fraud.
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The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has intensified its crackdown on Covid-19 relief fraud, uncovering a scheme that allegedly siphoned R26.9 million from the UIF Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (TERS). Fumu Mkalira Msiska, his wife Gladness Mkhonto Msiska, and his brother-in-law Bongani Zoran Mkhonto face fraud charges for creating hundreds of ghost employees to claim funds intended for struggling workers during the pandemic. The SIU's investigation revealed that these fraudulent claims were made between April and September 2020, with the accused using fabricated employee details to access relief funds. The SIU has secured three properties and five luxury vehicles, including a 2019 Land Rover Range Rover and a BMW X6, pending forfeiture proceedings. Additionally, a separate case in the Free State resulted in the conviction of businessman Ente Thibello Sekhoto, who was ordered to repay R201,812.36 for fraudulent claims. The SIU continues to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure accountability and justice for affected individuals.
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The investigation highlights the misuse of relief funds intended for genuine workers, affecting their access to support during the pandemic.
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