The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and Transnet have obtained a preservation order from the Special Tribunal to freeze around R20.3 million worth of movable and immovable properties, which include luxury vehicles and high-value properties. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into three allegedly irregular contracts for property valuation services with Transnet SOC Limited.
The order interdicts MM Real Estate (Pty) Ltd, Humphrey Tshepo Moyo, Neo Shown Matlala and any other party from selling, disposing, leasing, transferring, encumbering (including by granting rights of retention), transferring, donating, or dealing in any manner whatsoever to the frozen properties, pending the finalisation of civil proceedings.
The preserved items are:
A. Restrained movable properties
1. First Respondent (MM Real Estate (Pty) Ltd or linked individual):
- Porsche 718 Boxster
- Mercedes-Benz V250d Avantgarde 3.2 T
- Volkswagen Amarok
- Toyota Hilux
2. Second Respondent (Humphrey Tshepo Moyo):
- Volkswagen Amarok
3. Third Respondent (Neo Shown Matlaba):
- Porsche Macan S Diesel
4. Fifth Respondent (HTM (PTY) LTD):
- Mercedes-Benz C200
B. Restrained immovable properties
1. Properties linked to the sixth respondent (S Mabuza Properties (Pty) Ltd)
- Property in Broadacres Extension 11 Township
- An apartment in Fourways Extension 54
- Another apartment in Fourways Extension 54
- House in Fourways Extension 24
- Apartment in Bryanston Extension 7
2. Properties Linked to Fourth Respondent (Ladybird Business Hive)
- Four Office units in Vanderbijlpark
The interim order follows an SIU investigation that uncovered significant irregularities in the awarding of three contracts for property valuation services to Transnet. Transnet had referred various suspicious contracts involving Transnet Property to the SIU for further investigation. The contracts, awarded in 2019, 2021, and 2022, have a combined value of R89 million.
Working closely with Transnet, the SIU’s investigation revealed serious flaws in the procurement processes, raising concerns about compliance with supply chain management regulations and the possibility of undue influence in the awarding of these contracts.
Additionally, the SIU and Transnet reasonably believe that Transnet may not have received full and fair value for the payments made under the disputed contracts.
The SIU is empowered to investigate in terms of Proclamation 11 of 2018, as amended by Proclamation R. 3 of 2020 & Proclamation No. 97 of 2022.
The SIU is empowered to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by corruption, fraud, or maladministration. In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
Issued jointly by the Special Investigating Unit and Transnet
Enquiries: Kaizer Kganyago SIU spokesperson 082 306 8888
or
Ayanda Shezi, Spokesperson. Ayanda.shezi@transnet.net/mediadesk@transnet.net