The Hawks provincial spokesperson, Nomathandoza Mnisi, confirms that the unit is investigating the provincial department for these alleged irregularities. Despite the confirmation by Mnisi, it's not yet clear as to whether the investigations by the Hawks relate to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the province. 

The province recently made headlines following claims that Premier Zamani Saul allegedly used his influence in awarding PPE tenders. But later on, Saul set the record straight and said he doesn't "engage in piggish plunder of public resources". Mnisi says more information can be expected later on. However, the departmental spokesperson Xhanti Teki, tells OFM News that the department is not aware of any investigation at the department.

The Northern Cape Provincial Government in August announced that it has spent over R171 million in its fight against the spread of Covid-19 since the declaration of the National State of Disaster Management Act roughly seven months ago. At least 175 companies have scored millions of rands from the procurement of goods and services needed for the Northern Cape government’s Coronavirus (Covid-19) response. OFM News previously reported that Bronwyn Thomas-Abrahams, who is the spokesperson for Premier Saul, said this list will be shared with the Presidency for further analysis. Thomas-Abrahams added that the millions of rands were spent on PPE, social relief, disinfection of public buildings, and infrastructure repairs.

Meanwhile, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) recently announced that it was probing just under 660 companies and contracts, valued at over R5 billion, over corruption allegations regarding the procurement of goods and services. This as various departments across the country have been accused of maladministration and corruption in the procurement of PPE etc.

This is a developing story.

OFM News