The Special Tribunal has granted the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) an order to freeze assets – including luxury vehicles and property – worth some R20.3-million as part of an investigation into three alleged irregular contracts for property valuation by Transnet.
The contracts are valued at R89-million.
“The order interdicts MM Real Estate (Pty) Ltd, Humphrey Tshepo Moyo, Neo Shown Matlala and any other party from selling, disposing, leasing, transferring, encumbering (including by granting rights of retention), transferring, donating, or dealing in any manner whatsoever with the frozen properties, pending the finalisation of civil proceedings,” the SIU said in a statement.
Uncovered significant irregularities
The corruption-busting unit explained that its investigation has “uncovered significant irregularities in the awarding of three contracts for property valuation services to Transnet”.
“Transnet had referred various suspicious contracts involving Transnet Property to the SIU for further investigation. The contracts, awarded in 2019, 2021, and 2022, have a combined value of R89-million.
“Working closely with Transnet, the SIU’s investigation revealed serious flaws in the procurement processes, raising concerns about compliance with supply chain management regulations and the possibility of undue influence in the awarding of these contracts.
“Additionally, the SIU and Transnet reasonably believe that Transnet may not have received full and fair value for the payments made under the disputed contracts,” the unit said.
Any evidence of criminal activity will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for further processing.
Special Tribunal
“The SIU is empowered to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the SIU concluded.
Amid an investigation into the embezzlement of National Lotteries Commission (NLC) funds, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) this week clamped down on an R3.7-million luxury property in Midstream Estate, Gauteng, after obtaining a Special Tribunal preservation order to freeze it.
Amidst civil proceedings, Israel Mathibe, Smart Safety PPE, and other parties are prohibited from selling, leasing, or altering the property.
The 2020 proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa prompted the SIU’s investigation, which revealed how money intended for community projects like agricultural development and elderly homes was diverted into an opulent residence.
- SAnews.gov.za
