By Phenyo Selinda
Pretoria – The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has uncovered a shocking cybercrime, with R300 million siphoned off over the past decade. The announcement by DPWI Minister Dean Macpherson comes as part of his commitment to transparency and accountability.
Unveiling the Breach
The most recent incident, which occurred in May 2024, saw cybercriminals abscond with an additional R24 million. This prompted a comprehensive forensic investigation spearheaded by the Hawks, South African Police Services, State Security Agency, and top cyber and ICT security experts.
Minister Macpherson, alongside Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala, has conducted in-depth assessments of the department’s operations, revealing disturbing lapses. “It has become clear that the department has been a soft target and playground for cybercriminals over a ten-year period. I felt it necessary to let South Africa know what has transpired and what measures we are taking,” stated Macpherson.
Addressing Internal Collusion
Minister Macpherson did not mince words about the possibility of internal collusion. “I cannot discount the possibility of collusion between officials and criminals in this prolonged theft. We urgently need better financial controls,” he said.
In a determined effort to root out corruption, the Minister has pledged to dismantle these syndicates. “We want to put a stop to this immediately. This money should have been allocated to our infrastructure projects that aim to improve South Africans’ lives. The investigation will be expanded to uncover the masterminds and beneficiaries of this grand theft.”
Immediate Actions Taken
The fallout has been swift, with four DPWI officials, including three senior managers and one middle management official, placed under suspension. Investigators have also seized 30 laptops for further examination.
The department took the drastic step of shutting down all payment systems, resulting in substantial delays in creditor payments. In May, the DPWI announced a full-scale forensic probe into the cyber-security vulnerabilities, collaborating with banking partners ABSA and the South African Reserve Bank.
The investigation covers:
- Causes of the breach and vulnerabilities.
- Susceptibility of the ICT infrastructure to cybercrime.
- Lack of staff capacity and weak ICT systems.
Calls for Swift Justice
Minister Macpherson is adamant about swift justice. “The precautionary suspension of four individuals, including senior managers, and the seizure of over 30 laptops are crucial steps. Prolonged investigations with no results and consequences are unacceptable. Corruption has no place in this department.”
He also praised the initial swift actions taken by his predecessor, now Deputy Minister Zikalala. “The department has suffered a massive financial loss. Those responsible for safeguarding against cybercriminals must be held accountable. We demand answers and the recovery of stolen funds.”
Strengthening Cybersecurity
Minister Macpherson is dedicated to reinforcing DPWI’s cybersecurity systems to prevent future incidents. “I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure that our cyber security systems are robust and resilient.”

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