SIU Freezes Assets In R18 Million UIF TERS Fraud Case Linked To KZN Businesswoman

Special Investigating Unit has secured a Special Tribunal (SIU) order freezing assets linked to a KwaZulu-Natal businesswoman accused of benefiting from millions of rand in fraudulent COVID-19 relief claims.

The case centres on the alleged abuse of the Unemployment Insurance Fund’s Temporary Employee Relief Scheme (UIF TERS) during the pandemic.

The SIU said the order relates to more than R18 million in irregular claims that were allegedly channelled through a network of companies. Investigators believe the funds were unlawfully accessed and later transferred into personal and business accounts.

SIU Investigation Reveals Alleged UIF TERS Fraud Network

According to SIU spokesperson Selby Makgotho, the tribunal granted an order to freeze assets linked to Yolanda Nombuso Mgobo, director of Yoluleko Trading (Pty) Ltd. Authorities allege she benefited from proceeds linked to several entities accused of irregularly accessing UIF TERS funds.

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“The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) welcomes the Special Tribunal’s order to freeze a KwaZulu-Natal businesswoman’s assets linked to the abuse of the Unemployment Insurance Fund Temporary Employee Relief Scheme (UIF TERS) during the COVID-19 pandemic, of over R18 million in claims,” Makgotho said.

The entities linked to the investigation include Ezogu Trading (Pty) Ltd, Nakomang Trading Enterprise CC, Ezikamshalaza Trading CC, Senzisipho (Pty) Ltd and Amakhosana Contractors (Pty) Ltd.

KwaZulu-Natal Assets Frozen In COVID-19 Relief Probe

The SIU investigation found that Mgobo allegedly received more than R18.6 million through personal and company bank accounts between 2020 and 2025. Investigators further claimed the money was used for personal expenses and to benefit her partner, Hlalanathi Hopewell Mbangi.

“The SIU’s investigation further revealed that Mgobo utilised these proceeds for personal benefit and that of her life partner,” Makgotho said.

The tribunal order freezes several assets, including a Hyundai Tucson, Ford Ranger and Toyota Corolla. Multiple properties on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast have also been placed under restriction, including homes in Scottburgh and Uvongo valued at hundreds of thousands of rand.

Ghost Employee Database Allegedly Used In UIF TERS Claims

Special Tribunal Judge President Margaret Victor ruled that Mgobo, Mbangi and Yoluleko Trading are prohibited from selling or transferring the frozen assets while investigations continue.

“Mgobo, Mbangi, and Yoluleko Trading are prohibited from selling, transferring, hiding, or disposing of specific vehicles and properties listed in the order while the investigation and hearings are ongoing,” Makgotho confirmed.

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Although investigators said Mgobo did not directly submit UIF TERS applications, they found that her company received large payments from entities that had already benefited from UIF payouts.

The SIU said some of the claims involved the alleged use of a “ghost employee database” to unlawfully access relief funds.

“These claims were found to be irregular, including the use of a ghost employee database to access relief funds, which constitutes a criminal offence,” Makgotho said.

The SIU confirmed that the matter will now be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for possible criminal prosecution, including charges related to fraud and money laundering.