The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has intensified its warning against the illegal sale of queue positions at its offices, vowing a crackdown on what it describes as a “criminal network” preying on vulnerable grant beneficiaries.

The agency says it is alarmed by increasing reports from across the country of individuals profiting from desperate beneficiaries by selling places in queues, a practice it has labelled unlawful and unacceptable.

CEO Themba Matlou warned that SASSA is now treating the matter with urgency and will pursue both criminal and internal disciplinary action against those involved.

“This mushrooming scourge is unacceptable, unlawful, and a serious exploitation of vulnerable members of society who rely on social assistance for survival. We will not take this lying down.”

He added that SASSA is investigating whether syndicates may be operating around its offices, coordinating the sale of queue spots and intimidating beneficiaries.

“We take serious exception to these acts as they happen at the doorsteps of our offices and create an impression that we are complicit. We condemn this in the strongest possible terms, and we cannot allow it to continue.”

The agency says it will tighten security and work closely with law enforcement to clamp down on offenders and restore order at its facilities.

At the same time, SASSA acknowledged ongoing service delivery challenges at some offices, which it says may be contributing to the problem. However, Matlou insisted that improving efficiency remains a top priority.

“We are not oblivious to our own challenges. That is why we are not resting on our laurels and are accelerating the implementation of intervention measures.”

In addition to law enforcement measures, SASSA is accelerating the rollout of digital services, including its online self-service portal and eLife Certification system, to reduce the need for in-person visits.