President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed Proclamation 340 of 2026, authorising the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration, corruption, and irregular expenditure at the North West department of public works and roads. The SIU will also investigate any unlawful or improper loss of public funds and seek to recover any losses suffered by the state or the department.

SIU spokesperson Selby Makgotho said the investigation will focus on the procurement of, or contracting for, goods, works, or services by or on behalf of the department in relation to a bid for special maintenance of Road P152/1 from Setlagole to P34/4 in Delareyville, covering 58 kilometres. Phase II covers 28 kilometres.

“According to the tender notice, the bid amount stood at R150.466m.” The SIU will examine whether the tender process, contract, and related payments were handled lawfully, fairly, transparently, and cost-effectively, and in line with government procurement rules and the department’s own policies.

The investigation will further determine whether the contract was tainted by unlawful conduct by officials, agents of the department, or service providers, with the intention of corruptly or unduly benefiting themselves or another person or entity.

The SIU will also investigate allegations of fraud and any related unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the department or the State.

The investigation will cover the period from 9 March 2021 to 28 August 2026, the date of publication of the proclamation.

In terms of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act, the SIU is empowered to investigate the allegations, institute civil proceedings before the Special Tribunal or high court, and take steps to recover financial losses suffered by the state.

The SIU can also institute civil proceedings against those found responsible for wrongdoing arising from corruption, fraud or maladministration.

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