The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has recently launched a thorough investigation into the armed security contract at Moqhaka Local Municipality.

The move comes following allegations of unlawful and improper conduct spanning a significant period, from 1 January 2019 to 12 April 2024. The proclamation issued by the SIU encompasses a broad scope, including activities both before and after its publication date, concerning matters relevant to, connected with, and incidental to the contract under scrutiny.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed Proclamation 163 of 2024, authorising the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration in the affairs of the Moqhaka Local Municipality, in the Free State, and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State or the Municipality.”

#COSATU Free State welcomes the Special Investigative Unit in Moqhaka Local Municipality @LesediFM @amantsheuwa pic.twitter.com/Om2himANY1

— @COSATU Today (@_cosatu) April 15, 2024

“Proclamation 163 of 2024 authorises the SIU to investigate procuring and contracting armed physical security services in the Municipality,” said the SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago.

He said the investigation will also cover any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless or wasteful expenditure incurred by the department or state. Department officials, employees, suppliers and service providers will also be examined.

Kganyakgo detailed that the SIU will proactively identify system failures and make recommendations to improve measures to prevent loss if anyone is found to have committed maladministration, malpractice, corruption or fraud.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg