The Free State Department of Cooperative Governance and Human Settlements issued a formal warning on 14 July 2026 regarding a housing scam targeting residents in Bloemfontein. Fraudsters are reportedly using the name and image of MEC Saki Mokoena on social media platforms to deceive victims into paying R50,000 for Breaking New Ground (BNG) houses.
Official Stance On Housing Allocation
Government officials have clarified that public housing, including RDP and BNG units, is not for sale to the public. Beneficiaries are selected through a structured process based on approved provincial policies and strict qualifying criteria, meaning no payment is required to receive such housing.
The department would like the communities to note that government does not sell RDP houses. Beneficiaries of government housing programmes are selected in accordance with approved policies and qualifying criteria. No payment is required to qualify for or receive an RDP house.
Provincial CoGTA spokesperson Zimasa Mbewu confirmed that the department does not authorise any officials to collect funds for house allocation. Residents encountering individuals claiming to offer housing in exchange for payment are encouraged to report these incidents to law enforcement immediately.
Persistent Threat To Vulnerable Communities
Housing scams exploiting vulnerable citizens remain a recurring issue across South Africa, with fraudsters often impersonating officials to solicit illegal payments. These criminals frequently leverage social media to promise fast-tracked housing, relying on the desperation of those waiting for government-subsidised accommodation.
To prevent becoming a victim, the department reminds citizens that all legitimate housing applications must be processed through official provincial departments or local municipality offices. Authorities are expected to continue monitoring social media channels to identify and dismantle such fraudulent operations.