The investigation by the South African Police Service into allegations of tender fraud and corruption at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) is underway and will most likely not be finalized within the next year.
Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi, spokesperson for the Hawks, says the investigation into the charges that were laid last year in August, are still ongoing and inconclusive. “We are not in a position to reveal the contents thereof. I can confirm that it is a very time consuming investigation. There are various tender contracts involved which will require forensic audits and analysis.”
Mr. Steve Harris, General Secretary of the United National Transport Union (UNTU), welcomes the fact that the Hawks are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is done. UNTU appeals to the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to do its own investigation to determine if and where money paid out to irregular tenders can be recovered.
“Prasa is a state owned enterprise responsible for most passenger rail services in the country which are struggling with failing infrastructure and violent crimes at railway stations due to the lack of security. The company is constantly pleading poverty,” says Mr. Harris.
The criminal investigation against Prasa comes after Adv. Thuli Madonsela, Public Protector, made nine other crucial findings against the railway operator in her report entitled “Derailed”, and determined that there is widespread evidence of maladministration, improper conduct and nepotism at Prasa.
Mr. Harris says UNTU will urge the new Public Protector to keep his or her finger on the Hawks in the interest of justice. Adv. Madonsela’s term will come to an end at the end of October.
For enquiries phone Mr. Harris on 082 566 5516.
Issued on behalf of UNTU by Sonja Carstens, Media and Liaison Officer. For UNTU Press Releases e-mail sonja@untu.co.za or phone 082 463 6806.
