Getrude Makhafola

Getrude Makhafola

The embattled Department of Home Affairs said its recent clean-up drive has resulted in the dismissal or suspension of 189 officials during the past five months.

The action against the officials is an effort by director-general Mavuso Msimang to turn the corruption-ridden department around within 12 months.

Last month, after his first 100 days in office, Msimang said his department "was sick, and continued to be sick".

He said issues of corruption, security, organisational structures, information technology and service delivery would be prioritised.

The 189 officials have either been fired or suspended for charges ranging from fraud, misappropriation of funds, illegal issuing of documents to soliciting bribes.

"Of these, 56 officials were fired for committing serious acts of misconduct.

"During the same period we suspended 34 officials and issued 99 final written warnings," said spokesman Mantshele wa Tau.

Msimang's turnaround strategy included the improvement of technology, facilities and retraining and motivating staff.