An official from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has been accused and charged of gross misconduct that has cost the department a whopping R1.1 billion. The department has also laid criminal charges against three other employees who are suspected of corruption.
The department stated that one of the key functions of the senior official, based at the Pietermaritzburg office, was to identify and mitigate risks while avoiding irregular expenditure during procurement processes. However, it came to light that in early September 2024, several discrepancies were identified against the official regarding the awarding of contracts to a consulting company.
Upon investigation, it was revealed that the firm was awarded a total of 29 contracts which amounted to just over R1.1 billion.
- Discrepancies included missing documents in the procurement file
- Significant discrepancies between services requested and those procured
- Non-conducting of required check and balances
- Ensuring the fair awarding of contracts to bidders
The SCM Director, who was employed in his position since August 2024 has since been placed on immediate suspension as investigations continue.
Head of Communications at the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mlungisi Khumalo stated that following the dismissal of the Director of Supply Chain Management, the department has formally laid a criminal charge with the South African Police Services ( SAPS).
“When MEC Martin Meyer was appointed as the Executive Authority for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works and infrastructure, he vowed to expose and root out corruption in the department. The MEC has also vowed that the department’s hard stance and zero tolerance of corruption should be a stern warning to companies who seek to collude with officials in the department,” said Khumalo.
What are your thoughts on fraud and corruption within government departments? Drop us a comment!