Johannesburg – Three senior officials from the Department of Health have been arrested on suspicion of fraud.
The arrests on Monday, 2 March 2026, were a result of an ongoing investigation into allegations of fraud.
“Government notes the arrest this morning of three senior officials from the Department of Health in connection with an ongoing investigation into allegations of theft and fraud,” said a statement issued by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
“As the matter is under active investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), no further details can be disclosed at this stage.”
The GCIS stated that the fight against corruption remains an apex priority for the government as part of its commitment to building a safer, ethical, and corruption-free South Africa.
“This development aligns with the 2026 State of the Nation Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa, in which he underscored the need to intensify efforts against organised crime and systemic corruption, identifying these as critical threats to democracy and economic stability,” the statement said.
“Government further emphasises that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and urges the public to allow the investigative and judicial processes to proceed without interference.”
Report Corruption: You do not have to give your name when reporting fraud or corruption using:
National Anti-Corruption Hotline: 0800 701 701 (Toll-free number)
Email: integrity@publicservicecorruptionhotline.org.za
Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi said he has “noted this morning the arrest and appearance in court of three officials in the Department of Health, including the Director General”.
However, the Department of Health said: “At this juncture, the Minister is still in the dark about the circumstances surrounding the arrest of the three.
“As soon as the Minister has been fully briefed about this matter, he will issue a statement.
“For now, all that the Minister can say is that whatever the circumstances, the law must take its course.”
