Convicted GDE Employees to Get Sentenced

Abigail Visagie

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) officially confirmed that two former employees - male and female - and one of the brothers of the employees appeared for sentencing at the Johannesburg Commercial Crimes Court sitting at the Palm Ridge Magistrate Court.

The suspects are facing multiple charges, including fraud, forgery and theft. This comes after the human resources unit of the Gauteng West District Office detected the involvement of seven employees who were involved in a ghost employee scheme, defrauding the GDE of approximately R3.8-million.

Initially, a criminal case was opened in 2016, which landed on the desk of the Human Resources Unit. This then led to the arrest of the three suspects.

Spokesperson for the department, Steve Mabona, has further confirmed seven employees have been dismissed following an internal disciplinary process.

“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,” said Mabona.

Mabona further added that the dismissals were challenged at the Public Service Sectoral Bargaining Council, but the department successfully defended its actions at both the labour court and the labour appeal court.

The individuals were eventually found guilty on charges of fraud, forgery and theft on 23 May by the Johannesburg Commercial Crimes Court sitting at the Palm Ridge Magistrate Court.

Gauteng education MEC, Matome Chiloane, welcomed the outcome and reiterated the Department’s zero tolerance for fraud and corruption.

“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,” concluded Chiloane.