South Africa: Multiple arrests in pandemic-related corruption case

Officers seized assets and properties linked to 22 suspected members of a corruption network within the Department of Public Works in the South African province of Mpumalanga.

The Asset Forfeiture Unit, the Special Investigating Unit and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation of South Africa seized R52.6 million in assets and properties.

The investigation uncovered “multiple instances of corruption, fraud, theft, and money laundering committed by senior managers and service providers involved in procuring personal protective equipment (PPE) disinfection services during the COVID-19 period,” according to a government statement.

The operation was part of the country’s efforts to strengthen its fight against corruption.

Investigators found that senior management officials awarded COVID-19 PPE tenders to suppliers who never delivered the services. “These suppliers paid substantial kickbacks to the senior management officials and their family members in different ways,” the statement added.

The court order froze houses, electronics, cars, household items, jewellery, arms, ammunition, bank accounts, salaries, and bail monies worth approximately US$2.86 million.

The suspects now face criminal charges related to PPE procurement and will appear in the Commercial Crimes Court on charges of corruption, fraud, and money laundering.

President Cyril Ramaphosa instructed the country’s Special Investigating Unit to look into allegations of corruption, malpractice, and payments made by State institutions relating to PPE procurement and the conduct of State employees.