The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Mpumalanga has officially reopened its Mkhondo office, previously known as Piet Retief. This follows after a bizarre incident involving two senior officials and three unidentified individuals suspected to be traditional healers.
The incident, captured on security cameras on 17 April, revealed the group conducting rituals within the office premises after hours.
Findings of residues of needles and other muthi-like substances in the Mkhondo SASSA office
The discovery came to light when staff reported finding residues of needles and other muthi-like substances, prompting the senior manager to review the CCTV footage. In response, Mpumalanga MEC for Social Development Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, alongside SASSA executives, convened a debriefing session with staff on Sunday.
During the session, local pastors were invited to lead a mass prayer session at the affected SASSA office, complemented by fumigation and thorough deep cleaning.
“The intervention led the office to be reopened on Monday and the public was informed through various social media channels and stakeholders,” the statement read.
Services have now resumed to normalcy, with staff receiving ongoing support through a wellness program offering counseling services.
“As part of continuous support, officials have agreed to utilise the services if [they] still need further counselling.”
Full support offered to the staff in dealing with the aftermath of the incident
Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, further bolstered morale during a debriefing session held on Thursday, urging officials to remain resilient in serving the community. Bogopane-Zulu also pledged full support to the staff in navigating through the aftermath of the incident.
Meanwhile, SASSA has initiated an investigation to ascertain the motive behind the ritualistic activities. To also determine appropriate measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“The incident is currently under investigation to determine, the reason for the actual occurrence and appropriate remedies.”
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