The Hawks have denied reports they are investigating Justice Minister Thembi Simelane after a criminal case was opened against her. ActionSA opened a criminal case against Simelane at Polokwane SAPS yesterday over the VBS-linked half a million loan.

RESPECT OUR POLICIES

This comes after a Johannesburg-based radio station tweeted that the Hawks were investigating the minister. Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Nomthandazo Mbambo said: "We wish to refute the statement as incorrect and misleading as it is not within the policy of the Hawks to confirm individuals that are subject to any investigation so as to protect the integrity of our investigation," Mbambo said, adding that they can, however, confirm that ActionSA has registered a case relating to the VBS matter and that great strides have already been made by the Hawks` Serious Corruption Investigation in the investigation of various legs relating to VBS, which has since resulted in arrests and convictions, whilst other individuals are on trial. "Investigation into VBS related matters still continues and more arrests are imminent, but we cannot and will not confirm investigation into a particular individual until they have been brought before the court of law."

THE LAW MUST TAKE IT'S COURSE

Justice Ministry spokesperson, Tsekiso Machike, said the department has welcomed the opening of criminal case by ActionSA against Simelane. "The ministry believes laying criminal charges is the appropriate route whenever there are suspicions of unlawful conduct. An investigation will allow the matter to finally reach its logical conclusion. Because the matter is now subject to a police investigation, the minister will not be responding to media enquiries until the matter has been concluded,' Machike said.