A major breakthrough in the fight against financial exploitation of grant recipients was made this week, as a 61-year-old woman was apprehended by police in Groblershoop, Northern Cape, for her alleged involvement in a loan scam targeting SASSA beneficiaries. The arrest took place on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, after a coordinated investigation by several branches of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Law enforcement officials report that the woman was found at a local ATM in possession of numerous SASSA and bank cards, along with cash believed to be linked to fraudulent withdrawals. Authorities had been monitoring the suspect following intelligence that she was systematically using SASSA cards to collect loan repayments, withdrawing money from multiple accounts during the grant payment period.
SAPS has confirmed that the suspect is now facing charges under both the National Credit Act and fraud legislation. She is expected to appear in court shortly to answer to these allegations. The arrest was a result of collaboration between Border Police, the K9 Unit, and Crime Intelligence, demonstrating the seriousness with which authorities are treating crimes against grant recipients.
How the SASSA Card Loan Scam Was Uncovered
- Police received a tip-off about suspicious activity involving SASSA cards and repeated cash withdrawals.
- The suspect was placed under surveillance, particularly during grant payout periods.
- She was apprehended at an ATM, where she had multiple SASSA and bank cards in her possession, along with cash believed to be from illicit withdrawals.
- The cards were allegedly used to collect repayments from SASSA beneficiaries who had taken informal loans.
What Are the Legal Consequences?
South African law strictly forbids using social grants as collateral for loans or allowing others to access your SASSA card or PIN. Charges in such cases can include:
| Offense | Legal Consequence | Who Is Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Fraud involving SASSA cards | Criminal charges, prosecution | Lender and possibly borrowers |
| Contravention of National Credit Act | Additional criminal charges | Suspect |
| Withholding/using others’ SASSA cards | Arrest, possible jail time | Anyone involved |
Why Are SASSA Grant Recipients Vulnerable?
Many low-income and elderly South Africans are targeted by informal lenders, especially at grant payout times. The rising cost of living, limited access to formal credit, and the need for emergency funds make some recipients susceptible to these scams. SASSA cards are sometimes used illegally to secure repayments, putting beneficiaries at further financial risk.
Police Urge Public to Report Similar Crimes
Authorities are calling on the public to be vigilant and to immediately report any suspected loan scams or illegal use of SASSA cards. Anyone with information can contact the SAPS Crime Stop line at 08600 10111, or send anonymous tips through the MySAPS app, which is available for download on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
