Sentencing of Home Affairs official welcomed

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Pretoria - The Department of Home Affairs has welcomed the conviction and sentence handed to Sanele Zungu, a former senior admin officer at the Melmoth Local Office in KwaZulu-Natal.

Zungu, who was arrested following a joint sting operation by the SA Police Service and Home Affairs investigators, was subsequently found guilty of selling birth certificates.

On 14 August 2014, the Melmoth Magistrate’s Court sentenced her to six years imprisonment.  

The department said the conviction and sentence of Zungu sends an important message that corruption and fraud will not be tolerated.

Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba said that any official who is found to be involved in acts of fraud and corruption, which undermine the security of the country, will face the full might of the law.

Minister Gigaba said the department will see to it that such individuals are subjected to both internal disciplinary process, as well as criminal prosecution.

“The department appreciates the support and involvement of the SAPS Anti-Corruption Unit of KwaZulu-Natal in our endeavour to curb corrupt practices in our work environment.

“To this end, we extend a call to members of the public to continue to report fraud and corruption relating to the services provided by Home Affairs,” the minister said.  

Incidents of fraud and corruption can be reported to the National Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701 (toll-free) or send an email to report.corruption@dha.gov.za. - SAnews.gov.za