By Refilwe Mphirime
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) launched a branch in the Northern Cape on 1 April 2021 at Mitta Sipherepere Convention Centre in Kimberley.
The SIU has offices in all provinces, except in the Northern Cape.
Advocate Andy Mothibi, gave an overview of the investigative unit. “The SIU is authorised to investigate serious malpractices, corruption in connection with State Institutions, State affairs and public money as well as any conduct that may harm the public. To date SIU has 51 cases in the High Courts to the value of R64.4 Billion.”
Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul said, “We were the only province in the country that did not have an office, but here we are today. Post 1994, the primary enemy of the struggle has been corruption, which delays development.” He emphasised that efforts to combat corruption will be strengthened significantly and the province will grow.
Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola stated, “Corruption knows no boundaries. Some of the taxpayer’s money has been lost to corruption. We have seen the work of the SIU and we applaud them. Their work comes alongside positive development in the fight against corruption.”
Lamola commended the work done by the Unit as of February this year, he said more than 12 referrals were sent to various departments for disciplinary action for employees involved in irregularities. R145 million and 72 bank accounts have been blocked. South African Revenue Services has recovered R165 million in taxes. He appealed to community members to utilise the office and report allegations of corruption.
Saul said he has received a lot of calls on allegations of corruption since tabling the 2021/22 State of the Province Address.
The Premier informed leaders who use state resources for self-enrichment to have shivers down their spines, because the SIU will bring perpetrators to book.
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