Eastern Cape Hawks nab two in R1.1m UIF fraud crackdown
The accused assisted prospective claimants by providing claim forms and other documentation.
Two women from the Eastern Cape have been arrested and charged with orchestrating a R1.1 million UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) fraud scheme, according to the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation. Nandipha Tutani, aged 47, and Nobuntu Mjili, 50, were apprehended on 15 September 2026 and faced the Gqeberha Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on the same day.
The scheme, which commenced in 2018, involved Tutani, who worked for the Department of Labour's Employer Services section, and Mjili allegedly assisting prospective claimants with UIF applications, providing required forms and documentation. The Hawks discovered discrepancies during an audit, leading to the investigation. It emerged that Tutani and Mjili recruited individuals to file fraudulent claims despite the applicants not meeting the necessary criteria.
The investigation further suggested that Tutani played a role in coordinating the scheme alongside Mjili, recruiting claimants, preparing and submitting fraudulent applications, and withdrawing funds. Both suspects were released on R2,000 bail after their court appearance, with the case being adjourned to 5 October 2026 for legal representation.
Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, the Provincial Head of the Hawks, commended the investigative team for their efforts in apprehending the alleged perpetrators.
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