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On Thursday, 07 November 2024, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), working alongside the Hawks and the South African Police Service, conducted a search and seizure operation at JB Marks Local Municipality to gather evidence in an ongoing probe into the construction of a flood line canal near the N12 provincial road and Ikageng Extension 11.
The operation, which began at 9:30 am, followed a warrant granted by the Potchefstroom Magistrate Court on Wednesday, 06 November 2024, and was initiated after the municipality reportedly failed to cooperate with previous SIU requests to access documents. This investigation is mandated under Proclamation 196 of 2024, authorizing the SIU to look into potential maladministration, procurement irregularities, and compliance issues related to contracts and tenders awarded by the municipality between 1 January 2015 and 04 October 2024.
The SIU gathered a range of documentation and electronic records, including:
Company registration details
Payment records (invoices, purchase orders, remittance advice)
Electronic devices, such as laptops, mobile devices, and storage media used by relevant officials
Emails and other digital records related to the procurement process
The investigation stems from concerns over potential misconduct in the municipality’s handling of the flood canal project, as well as its procurement practices. The SIU has authority under the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 to conduct thorough investigations, including accessing financial and digital records and questioning witnesses under oath.
If evidence of criminal activity is uncovered, the SIU will forward findings to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action. Additionally, the SIU is authorized to pursue civil action to recover any public funds lost due to fraud, corruption, or maladministration.
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