Johannesburg: Four senior officials, including the Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Correctional Services, have been suspended, pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations of fraud related to a coal supply tender.
According to South African Government News Agency, a criminal case has been opened with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) following the allegations. A forensic investigation will also be conducted to establish the full extent of any irregularities so that those responsible can be prosecuted.
At the time of his appointment as Minister of Correctional Services, Dr. Pieter Groenewald stated that combating corruption and fraud, and ensuring consequences for officials who transgress, would be his top priority. The Minister welcomes the breakthrough in this matter and gives the assurance that his department will co-operate fully to ensure that those who are guilty are held to account, the department said in a short statement.