Pretoria: Government has welcomed the arrest of three senior officials from the Department of Health in connection with an ongoing investigation into allegations of theft and fraud involving a tender worth more than R1 million.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) emphasized that the fight against corruption remains a top priority for the government. The commitment is part of a broader initiative to foster a safer, ethical, and corruption-free South Africa.
The allegations date back to 2023, when more than R1 million was allegedly awarded to a service provider, violating the Public Finance Management Act. The three officials, aged 67, 46, and 55, were arrested by members of the Hawks' National Serious Corruption Investigation unit. They are scheduled to appear in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court following a comprehensive investigation launched in April 2024.
One of the suspects' companies is also implicated as the fifth juristic person, having received the funds. The fourth suspect, identified as the service provider, along with her company, has yet to be apprehended.
As the Hawks continue their active investigation, no further details are available at this time. The GCIS highlighted that these arrests align with President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2026 State of the Nation Address, which called for intensified efforts against organized crime and systemic corruption, identifying them as significant threats to democracy and economic stability.
The government reiterated that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and encouraged the public to allow the investigative and judicial processes to unfold without interference. Citizens are urged to report any instances of corruption and fraud anonymously through the National Anti-Corruption Hotline at 0800 701 701 or via email at [email protected].