15 arrested in Khulile for alleged SASSA-linked insurance scam

Fifteen people have been arrested in Khulile Location in the Eastern Cape after allegedly targeting SASSA beneficiaries with a fraudulent insurance scheme.

According to a media statement issued by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Eastern Cape, the arrests took place on 27 April 2026 during a joint intervention by law enforcement and community leaders in the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The suspects, described as employees of 1Life Insurance, were taken to Debe Nek Police Station.

SASSA says the group was allegedly conducting unauthorised insurance sales while falsely presenting the operation as a “SASSA promotion”. They are also accused of impersonating agency officials and claiming a partnership with SASSA. This has not been confirmed.

The agency has distanced itself from any such activity, stating clearly that it does not authorise private companies to sell insurance using its name or to approach beneficiaries under its banner.

A criminal case has been opened against the individuals and the company for the alleged misuse of the SASSA name and identity, which is prohibited under Section 16 of the South African Social Security Agency Act.

The crackdown comes as concerns grow about scams targeting vulnerable grant recipients in rural parts of the Eastern Cape, where access to information is limited and beneficiaries are often approached directly in their communities.

For residents in areas like Khulile, Lusikisiki, and surrounding villages, the incident highlights a growing risk. Many rely on social grants as their only source of income, making them easy targets for fraudsters promising benefits or “special offers”.

SASSA has warned that all its officials carry branded identification cards and that members of the public have the right to demand proof from anyone claiming to represent the agency. The public is also urged to report suspicious activity.

Beneficiaries can verify information or report suspected scams by visiting www.sassa.gov.za or calling 0800 60 10 11 or 043 707 6335.

The arrests may bring some reassurance, but questions remain about how long the alleged scheme has been operating and how many people may have been affected. That impact has not been confirmed.

For Eastern Cape communities, the message is clear: do not sign any documents or agree to payments linked to SASSA services without official verification.

We will update this story as more information becomes available.