File
The Special Investigating Unit said it would investigate serious allegations against of maladministration in the affairs of the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA).
In a statement on Thursday, the SIU said it was also authorised, in terms of a proclamation signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, to recover any financial losses suffered by the state and ECDRA.
"Proclamation R147 of 2024 authorises the SIU to probe the procurement and/or contracting for goods, works, or services concerning a tender for the planning and design of the Marine Tilapia Industry Incubator Project within the Mbhashe Local Municipality, by or on behalf of the ECRDA," said spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.
He said the SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the agency or the state.
"The scope of the investigation also covers any unlawful or improper conduct by officials or employees of ECRDA, the applicable suppliers or service providers or any other person or entity," he added.
Kganyago said the Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 1 February 2020 and 26 January 2024.
"In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses.
"In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action," he said.
#KnowYourSIU| Part of the SIU's mandate is to recover money and assets that the State has lost due to corruption. To action this, the SIU institutes civil litigation through the Special Tribunal or High Court to recover these losses. pic.twitter.com/9cUhvNNCS7
— Special Investigating Unit (SIU) (@RSASIU) January 30, 2024
