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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has welcomed the arrest of a former SRC member from Rustenburg TVET College. The suspect was taken in by the Hawks’ Serious Economic Offences Section in Pretoria. NSFAS says the individual is alleged to have defrauded first-year students of R14,000 in allowances.
Complaint Sparked Full Forensic Investigation
NSFAS launched its investigation after receiving a complaint from a student at Orbit TVET College in June 2023. The student reported fraudulent transactions from their NSFAS-linked bank account.
During preliminary checks, the NSFAS Forensics Unit confirmed that unauthorised transfers were made into the accused SRC member’s bank account. Further inquiry showed that several Orbit TVET College students had also been affected.
Hawks and SAPS Assist in Multiple Fraud Cases
Following the complaint, NSFAS Forensics officials conducted an onsite investigation at Orbit TVET College. They were supported by the SAPS Serious Economic Offences Unit in Pretoria. Several criminal cases were registered for further investigation and potential prosecution.
NSFAS commended law enforcement for their collaboration and praised Orbit TVET College’s management for assisting investigators and supporting affected students.
NSFAS Urges Students to Stay Alert Against Scams
NSFAS says it remains committed to protecting the integrity of its funding system. The scheme warned that all cases of fraud or misconduct will be treated seriously.
Students were urged to follow several safety steps to prevent fraud:
- NSFAS staff will never request payment to process applications.
- Do not pay anyone to “speed up” or “check” an application.
- Do not share personal information with SRC members or strangers.
- Always log out of your myNSFAS profile after every session.
- Avoid suspicious links or groups pretending to be NSFAS.
- Only use official NSFAS websites and communication channels.
- Report suspicious activity to SAPS or email speakup@nsfas.org.za.
Commitment to Protecting Students
NSFAS encouraged students to stay vigilant and safeguard their personal information. The scheme said it will continue working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
