SIU probes alleged fuel tender corruption at Mkhondo Local Municipality
As families confront the financial demands of January, fraudsters emerge, luring vulnerable consumers with too-good-to-be-true offers. From 2017 to 2026: Investigators dig into alleged tender irregularities.
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The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been authorised to probe serious allegations of corruption and financial misconduct at the Mkhondo Local Municipality.
The scope of the investigation spans nine years, from October 1, 2017, through February 13, 2026.
SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, said the SIU will probe serious allegations relating to tender processes of fuel supply, where payments may have been made in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective, and potentially contrary to applicable legislation and Treasury regulations.
The investigation comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa gave the unit the go-ahead to look closely at fuel supply tenders that could allegedly expose years of questionable spending.
"The SIU has been authorised to investigate allegations of maladministration, unlawful conduct, and irregular expenditure at the municipality," added Kganyago.
Officials, employees, service providers, and any connected parties could find themselves under the microscope.
The SIU will also assess whether the municipality and, ultimately, the State suffered financial losses and will pursue recovery where possible.
"The SIU is also authorised to initiate civil proceedings in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation and to recover financial losses suffered by the State, including funds paid for services not rendered."
Should evidence of criminal conduct emerge, the matter will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority.
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