Government has welcomed the arrest of 12 members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and a company director in relation to a tender that was awarded irregularly to Medicare 24.
All accused were expected to make their first appearance before the Pretoria Magistrates' Court on Wednesday on charges of corruption, fraud and the Contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
They were arrested by the Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).
“These arrests send a clear and necessary message that no individual, including those entrusted with enforcing the law, is above scrutiny or beyond the reach of law enforcement,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.
Government has commended the work of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption and other law enforcement authorities for acting decisively in this matter.
“Their actions demonstrate that accountability mechanisms are functioning and that wrongdoing within the public service will be confronted directly.
“The integrity of law-enforcement institutions is fundamental to public trust, and it is therefore critical that such matters are investigated thoroughly and prosecuted without fear or favour,” the GCIS said.
Government added that the arrests serve as a firm reminder across the public sector that ethical leadership, transparent procurement practices and strict compliance with policies, such as the Public Finance Management Act, are non-negotiable obligations.
“Government is committed to ensuring that law-enforcement institutions are credible, professional and beyond reproach. Strengthening oversight, enforcing consequence management and protecting public resources remain essential to restoring and sustaining public confidence.” -SAnews.gov.za
