A Western Cape resident narrowly avoided losing more than R834,000 in Lotto winnings after claiming her prize on the final day allowed by Ithuba, the national lottery operator. The woman, who had ignored repeated phone calls from officials, arrived at an Ithuba office just before the deadline to validate her ticket. She described the experience as overwhelming, noting the emotional contrast of attending a funeral earlier in the day before unexpectedly securing a life-changing payout.
The winning ticket was purchased on 5 February 2025 via the Absa banking app using the quick pick option, with a R600 wager. Ithuba has previously urged players to check their tickets promptly and respond to official communications to avoid forfeiting prizes, which revert to the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund if unclaimed.
For South Africans, the incident highlights both the opportunities and risks associated with lottery participation. While the prize offers financial relief and potential stability, it also underscores the importance of vigilance in managing winnings. The case serves as a reminder that timely action is essential to ensure life-changing amounts are not lost due to oversight or hesitation.
