The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has confirmed the dismissal of the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport Deputy Director of Property Management, Kobus Sifiso Mkhabela.
COVID-19 PPEs TENDERS FOR FRIENDS
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago revealed that Mkhabela is one of the senior management officials who awarded multi-million COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) tenders to suppliers who did not deliver the services. "These suppliers paid substantial kickbacks to the senior management officials and their family members in different ways. The investigation uncovered multiple instances of corruption, fraud, theft, and money laundering committed by senior managers and service providers involved in procuring PPE disinfection services during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Kganyago. Mkhabela (44) was arrested in September 2022 alongside the director of Ntando MS Trading, Andiswa Dibakoane (26), and Bongani Lukhele (47), who is the director of Ligcabo Properties, and were charged with money laundering, fraud, and contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PMFA). They are out on R15 000 bail each, and their matter is ongoing.
CHARGED AND DISMISSED
Kganyago said following the work of SIU, Mkhabela's department charged him with misconduct, which resulted in his dismissal. "In July 2024, the High Court of South Africa, Mpumalanga Division, Mbombela, granted the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority, the SIU, and the Hawks an order to seize various assets and properties valued at approximately R52.6 million. These assets are linked to 22 senior management officials, service providers, and entities involved in an alleged corruption network within the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works. Mkhabela is among these officials." Kganyago said Mkhabela has since lost his home, a VW Tiguan 2018, a Mercedes Benz, a VW Polo 2020, cell phones (Samsung and iPhone), a MacBook laptop, a microwave, a fridge, a washing machine, a television and the bank account where he receives his salary.
