Gauteng’s MEC for Health and Social Development, Qedani Mahlangu, has yet again reiterated that her department would not tolerate corruption.
“Extreme action will be taken against those found guilty of defrauding the department,” she said.
This follows the department’s stern action against Angela Langa, a social worker, who defrauded the system of over R70 000. Langa underwent departmental disciplinary procedures and was found guilty and struck off the practice for three years. The department also recovered the R73 998 35 she had illegally received by attaching her pension fund.
It is reported that Langa was claiming foster care grants by creating ghost beneficiaries using unemployed women as foster parents. She forged birth certificates and made false applications before the magistrate courts.
An unemployed woman she was working with blew the whistle about the social worker’s illegal actions to the department. Upon this knowledge the department followed internal disciplinary procedures.
The matter was also referred to the police and a criminal case was opened against Langa. She was found guilty at the Bronkhorstspruit Regional Court and is due to appear on 29 April 2010 for sentencing.
Sending a warning to public servants, MEC Mahlangu said that the department will not tolerate corruption.
The MEC added that the services were meant to benefit disadvantaged citizens and should not be abused.
Issued by: Office of the Premier, Gauteng Provincial Government
16 April 2010
Source: Office of the Premier, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gautengonline.gov.za/)
