The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will expand its investigation into allegations of serious maladministration at the Department of Water and Sanitation to include the “Drop the Block” Project.
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation amending an earlier proclamation authorising the corruption busting unit to probe the department.
“Proclamation 287 of 2025 expands the scope of the SIU’s investigation to include the “Drop the Block” Project and its implementation by the department and its implementing agents, which are Lepelle Northern Water and Sedibeng Water.
“This also encompasses any suppliers or service providers appointed by the department, Lepelle Northern Water, and Sedibeng Water for the ‘Drop the Block’ Project. Initially, the investigation was limited to the department and Sedibeng Water only,” the SIU said in a statement.
The time frame of the investigation has also been extended to now start from 1 January 2015 and end on 12 September 2025.
“The scope of the investigation also encompasses any unlawful or improper conduct by department officials or employees, as well as applicable suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity that has caused or may cause serious harm to the public's interests.
“Furthermore, the investigation will also establish whether there was any unlawful appropriation or expenditure of public money.
“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,” the unit said. – SAnews.gov.za
