A joint operation against COVID-19 PPE corruption has netted a R52-million seizure, reports IOL. On Tuesday 23 July 2024, various assets and properties were seized by the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The joint operation was conducted with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks.
COVID-19 PPE CORRUPTION
Assets and properties of 22 senior officials and service providers were seized across the country. Perpetrators in Mpumalanga, Gauteng, North West and Western Cape are part of an alleged COVID-19 PPE corruption network. Moreover, operations saw 34 orders served in 24 hours. This netted 29 properties, 31 vehicles and a boat trailer. Furthermore, a High Court order freezes bank accounts, salaries, and bail monies. Therefore, all internet banking privileges of the accused are removed.
The order is based on the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, which prevents a person from dissipating assets before a confiscation order is made,” said an NPA spokesperson. Investigations into COVID-19 PPE corruption revealed that senior management officials awarded multi-million Rand tenders to suppliers who simply never delivered any services.
KICKBACKS AND MORE
Allegedly fraudulent suppliers paid kickbacks to the senior management officials and family members. The investigation into COVID-19 PPE corruption uncovered multiple instances of fraud, theft and money laundering by senior managers and service providers. Officials and service providers now face criminal charges related to the aforementioned corruption, fraud and money laundering.
The NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) is authorised under Section 26 of the Prevention of Corruption Act to institute civil action in the high court or a special tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations related to acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration. In line with the SIU Act, it refers any evidence of criminal conduct it uncovers to the NPA for further action.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF FRAUD THAT TOOK PLACE DURING COVID?
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