A Zimbabwean national, Kudakwashe Mpofu, was arrested for faking his residency permit to secure a top government job in South Africa.

The scandal has sparked outrage among South Africans, with many calling for Mpofu to pay back the millions he earned through his fraudulent activities.

According to reports, Mpofu applied for a job at the North West Development Corporation in 2023 and was hired as an asset manager, later being promoted to Chief Financial Officer. He earned a total of R3 million in salaries before being arrested by the Hawks and appearing in court on January 29, 2025.

The case has highlighted the rampant corruption within the Department of Home Affairs, with Minister Leon Schreiber revealing that foreign nationals had paid between R1000 and R45 000 for documents.

Schreiber promised that heads would roll, saying that officials who sold identity documents had been treasonous and were selling the country.

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South Africans React with Anger and Disappointment

The news of Mpofu’s arrest has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many South Africans expressing their outrage and disappointment. Some of the comments noted by Briefly media outlet include:

“Make him pay back all the monies he fraudulently earned with interests.” – Siphiwe Biyela

“He must reveal the one who gave him those fraudulent documents.” – Sipho Tymon Miyo

“I’m surprised that his arrest just happened but this incident was reported in 2023.” – Mpho Sally

“This is South Africa for you. A country where illegal immigrants from other African countries live very nice lives.” – Botlhokwa Bantshagongwe

The case of Mpofu’s fake residency permit is not an isolated incident. In March 2024, former Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi called for the Special Investigating Unit to probe Mpofu’s fake residence permit after a criminal case was opened against him. Additionally, former Miss South Africa contestant Chidimma Adetshina’s citizenship was questioned, and ActionSA called for an investigation into her mother’s background after it emerged that she may have committed identity theft and fraud.

The Consequences of Corruption

The consequences of corruption are far-reaching, and the case of Mpofu’s fake residency permit is a prime example. The scandal has not only sparked outrage among South Africans but has also highlighted the need for greater accountability and transparency within the Department of Home Affairs.

As the case against Mpofu continues, one thing is clear: corruption will not be tolerated in South Africa.

The people demand justice, and those found guilty of corruption must face the consequences of their actions.