AFU, SIU, and Hawks Seize R52.6 Million in Assets from Mpumalanga PPE Corruption Network

by Selinda Phenyo
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By Phenyo Selinda

The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) have seized assets and properties valued at approximately R52.6 million. This action targets 22 senior officials, service providers, and entities implicated in an alleged corruption network within the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works.

Preservation Order Secured from High Court

The operation was greenlit following a preservation court order obtained from the High Court of South Africa, Mpumalanga Division, Mbombela. This order authorizes the AFU, SIU, and Hawks to seize assets across Mpumalanga, Gauteng, the North West, and Western Cape provinces connected to personal protective equipment (PPE) corruption.

Extensive Operation Targets Corruption

“The operation included serving orders at 34 locations and capturing inventories of 29 properties, 31 vehicles, and a boat trailer,” the joint statement from the NPA, Hawks, and SIU disclosed. The seized assets range from properties, vehicles, and household items to electronics, jewellery, and bank accounts. Furthermore, all internet banking privileges of the accused have been revoked as of 23 July 2024.

High-Profile Individuals and Entities Implicated

Among those restrained by the court order are senior officials such as Macdonald Sigudla, Dorries Mbatha, and Bandile Ngcobo, alongside service providers including Maganeleni Trading and Projects (Pty) Ltd and Thandolwam Transport and Projects (Pty) Ltd.

Legal Framework and Investigation Findings

The order is anchored on Section 26 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, 121 of 1998, which aims to prevent the dissipation of assets before a confiscation order post-conviction. The SIU’s investigation into PPE contracts, particularly those related to the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed that senior officials awarded multi-million Rand tenders to suppliers who failed to deliver services.

Uncovering Corruption and Fraud

“These suppliers paid substantial kickbacks to senior management officials and their family members,” the investigation found, uncovering numerous instances of corruption, fraud, theft, and money laundering. The SIU, under the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, referred criminal evidence to the NPA and Hawks, leading to the arrest of implicated department officials and service providers.

Upcoming Court Proceedings

The implicated officials and service providers are facing criminal charges related to PPE procurement and will appear in the Commercial Crimes Court on charges of corruption, fraud, and money laundering.

Presidential Directive on Corruption

President Cyril Ramaphosa mandated the SIU, through Proclamation R23 of 2020, to investigate allegations of corruption, maladministration, and malpractice concerning PPE procurement by state institutions and the conduct of state employees.


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