The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is closing in on properties and companies across KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng in a search-and-seizure operation targeting a syndicate accused of siphoning R161 million from the UIF’s Covid-19 Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (Ters).
The operation, authorised by a warrant issued by the Special Tribunal, targets multiple premises, including offices, residences, and the UIF Head Office in Pretoria.
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said the operation is underway linking up to 16 companies and over 35 individuals suspected of being central to the fraudulent scheme, including Thamsanqa Madlala, a key person of interest and director of Bokoharama Construction.
Officers seized bank statements, fraudulent applications, memorandums of understanding with the UIF, correspondence and a wide range of digital devices, including desktops, laptops, cellphones, data storage devices and network equipment.
“It is linked to 16 companies and over 35 individuals suspected of being central to the fraudulent scheme, including Thamsanqa Madlala, a key person of interest and director of Bokoharama Construction,” Kganyago said. Other major companies searched include Aventador Gate (Pretoria), which received R3.8million and several based in KwaZulu-Natal.
The SIU, said the investigation point to a well-organised networks that submitted false applications on behalf of people who were never employed by the beneficiary companies.
“The substantial funds received were not paid to workers; instead, they were distributed among syndicate members in patterns consistent with money-laundering,” Kganyago said.
Kganyago said the operation focused on three main clusters across the two provinces. The seized evidence will undergo forensic analysis to support the investigation, and the SIU will pursue civil action to correct any wrongdoing identified and recover financial losses suffered by the State.
Suspect Companies & Directors:
Nakomang Trading Enterprise (Gauteng): Received R19,183,197.34. Searches are underway at its Sunninghill offices and linked residences in Rosettenville and Kenilworth, Johannesburg.
Lubelo Hlomuka Holdings t/a SA Scrum Assembly (KZN/Gauteng): Received R15,917,398.98. Its director, Nhlakanipho Mngomezulu, is identified by the SIU as the syndicate’s alleged mastermind (“Mkhulu”). Searches are being conducted at associated addresses in Pietermaritzburg, Durban (Kenville), Sandton, and Fourways.
Bokoharama Construction (KZN): Received R18,197,289.94. Its director, Thamsanqa Madlala, is a key person of interest and a local councillor at the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality. Searches are focused on locations in Port Shepstone, including Anerley and Margate.
Key Persons of Interest (Alleged Syndicate Operators):
Thamsanqa Madlala: As a primary person of interest, Madlala’s company received R18 million in TERS funds. The SIU investigation reveals that payments were directed toward asset purchases for the alleged mastermind and other syndicate figures.
Yolanda Nombuso Mgobo: Identified as a central figure who received and distributed over R18.6 million in syndicate funds. Searches are underway at her residences in Scottburgh and Amanzimtoti, as well as at premises linked to her fiancé.
Sphamandla Sokhela and Nhlakanipho Zondi (Attorney): Alleged proxies for Mngomezulu. Searches are being conducted in Pietermaritzburg and Edendale.
Senzo Gumede: Director of companies (Amakhosana Contractors and Senzisipho Pty Ltd) used to launder funds, with searches in Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
Sboniso Ronald Cele and Simtholile Dlamini: Alleged “runners”. Searches are focused on Port Shepstone and Johannesburg (Oakdene).
