South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa

The government of South Africa has identified 4,323 suspected “ghost workers” on public payrolls following a nationwide audit to curb fraud and cut spending.

The National Treasury said the review of the Personnel and Salary System (PERSAL) flagged cases involving duplicate identities, payments to deceased persons, and irregular bank details. A physical verification exercise is underway, according to the South African Broadcasting Corporation.

Officials warned that unverified workers risk salary suspension and possible dismissal. The audit is part of efforts to rein in personnel costs, which account for nearly a third of government spending.

Treasury is cross-checking records with the South African Revenue Service and the Department of Home Affairs to detect anomalies. It is also running an early retirement scheme, expected to save billions of rand.

Authorities said investigations will continue, with disciplinary and criminal action expected in confirmed fraud cases.