NSFAS Welcomes Lephalale Fraud and Theft Arrests as Accused Return to Court next month
Eleven individuals and four companies face alleged NSFAS-related charges; the case remains before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has welcomed the steps taken by the Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit in Limpopo, which resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals and 4 companies on charges of fraud and theft involving NSFAS funds.
The accused appeared before the Lephalale Magistrate Court on Tuesday and are scheduled to appear before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Thursday, 7 May 2026.
“NSFAS is deeply concerned by the reported allegations that, during 2017, funds intended to support deserving students were diverted for personal gain through fraudulent activities involving senior staff and clerks at Lephalale TVET College. Such actions not only compromise the integrity of the Scheme but also deny deserving students access to educational opportunities,” the National Student Financial Aid Scheme said.
NSFAS has commended the Hawks, under the leadership of Major General Gopez Govender, for their unwavering commitment to uncovering and addressing corruption.
“The Scheme remains steadfast in its resolve to cooperate fully with all law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice prevails and that public funds are protected.
Our mission remains to provide financial support to students in need, and we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and good governance. NSFAS takes any breach of trust extremely seriously and will pursue all available measures to safeguard the Scheme and its beneficiaries.”
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme has urged the public to contact the Hawks with information that may assist investigations.
“Together, we can protect the future of South Africa’s students and restore confidence in the administration of student financial aid.”
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