SIU recovers R3.2 million as Lottery Commission corruption probe deepens

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has successfully recovered R3.2 million from two companies found to have benefited unduly from the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).

This recovery is a direct result of the mandate issued by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who authorised the SIU to investigate widespread maladministration within the commission after it was discovered that public funds intended for community upliftment were being diverted for personal gain.

The latest investigations into NLC beneficiaries revealed that money earmarked for media development and a women's soccer clinic was systematically misused.

Todi Media Development received R1.5 million for a project intended to cover journalists' accommodation, car rentals, and marketing.

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However, the investigation found that its director, Makhudu Sefara, who is also currently employed as the Sunday Times editor, received R550,000 of that amount.

In a separate instance of financial misconduct, the company Zibsiflo NPC was awarded R1.71 million to fund a women’s soccer clinic in the Free State. Instead of executing the sports programme, company directors allegedly pocketed the grant money. One director notably utilised R900,000 of the funds to purchase a residential property in Bassonia.

SIU spokesperson Selby Makgotho highlighted the importance of these recoveries in maintaining the integrity of public institutions.

He stated that this recovery demonstrates the SIU's commitment to protecting public funds, noting that money meant to empower communities was instead diverted into private enrichment schemes.

Following these findings, the SIU has confirmed it is legally obligated to refer the gathered evidence to the relevant authorities for criminal prosecution.

This ensures that those responsible for the diversion of public resources face the full weight of the law alongside the financial recovery of the stolen assets.