The departmental spokesperson Petrus Siko explained that the decision came as a result of numerous complaints received regarding irregularities in awarding a security tender to the projected amount of R133 million. Siko detailed that the department established prima-face information, that led to the suspension of one senior manager and three other officials. 

Officials have since been placed on a 30-day precautionary suspension due to the seriousness of the allegations levelled against them.

Meanwhile, North West MEC for Social Development, Boitumelo Moiloa, said the precautionary suspensions should serve as a deterrent to other officials in the department who may be involved in corrupt activities. 

She further stated the seriousness of zero tolerance for corruption in the department as they want clean governance. Siko said the decision to place officials accused of corruption under precautionary suspension, is to allow due processes to unfold as well as to respond to consequence management as required by the law.

“In dealing with this matter expeditiously and efficiently, the department intends to adhere strictly to the prescribed time frames to bring the investigations to finality,” he concluded.

OFM News