The Special Investigating Unit (Special Investigating Unit) has welcomed a Special Tribunal order freezing assets linked to a KwaZulu-Natal businesswoman accused of benefiting from more than R18 million in fraudulent UIF Temporary Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) payments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The SIU investigation found that Ms Yolanda Nombuso Mgobo, director of Yoluleko Trading (Pty) Ltd, benefited from funds channelled through several companies linked to irregular TERS claims.
“The Special Tribunal’s order to preserve assets is a critical step in protecting public funds and preventing further dissipation of proceeds of corruption,” the SIU said.
The probe revealed that Mgobo received approximately R18,632,335 into her personal and business accounts between 2020 and 2025, despite not directly submitting UIF TERS claims herself. The funds were allegedly routed through multiple entities before being transferred for personal use and to benefit her partner, Mr Hlalanathi Hopewell Mbangi.
According to the SIU, “these claims were found to be irregular, including the use of a ghost employee database to access relief funds, which constitutes a criminal offence.”
Assets now frozen under the Special Tribunal order include vehicles such as a Hyundai Tucson, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Corolla, as well as multiple properties in Scottburgh and Uvongo on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
Judge President Margaret Victor ordered that the assets may not be sold, transferred, or disposed of while proceedings continue, although the affected parties remain responsible for ongoing costs such as maintenance, insurance, and levies.
The SIU said payments linked to the scheme were traced through several companies, including Ezogu Trading, Ezikamshalaza Trading, and Nakomang Trading Enterprise, which collectively received tens of millions in UIF TERS funds.
“The SIU remains committed to recovering public funds lost through corruption and ensuring accountability for those who exploited COVID-19 relief measures meant to support vulnerable workers and businesses,” the unit said.
The matter will now be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for consideration of criminal charges, including fraud and money laundering.
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