Hawks raid Fort Hare University after allegations of fraud
The Hawks have conducted raids at Fort Hare University's three campuses on Thursday as part of an investigation into allegations of fraud linked to "fugitive" professor, Edwin Ijeoma.
Hawks Eastern Cape spokesperson, Captain Yolisa Mgolodela, says this relates to allegations of fraud with the National Financial Student Aid Scheme (NSFAS), as well as procurement fraud.
Mgolodela confirmed no arrests have been made thus far and the investigation is still ongoing.
Fort Hare University has meanwhile welcomed the "blitzkrieg into the alleged grotesque criminal conduct of fugitive, Professor Edwin Ijeoma."
The University says, "several suspect locations in Bhisho, East London and Alice are being raided as part of an investigation into student admission fraud, corruption and money laundering activities by Ijeoma."
The Director for Investigations and Vetting Services, Isaac Plaatjies, also laid criminal charges against Ijeoma on Thursday.
This relates to the "irregular admission and registration of two students, including Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, theft of money, theft of a University vehicle, and fraud in the region of R5 million for sketchy and unauthorized academic work and programmes for the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature," among other charges.
Fort Hare says Ijeoma, who according to the Hawks is on the run or in hiding, resigned last month before UFH could initiate a formal, disciplinary hearing against him.
His whereabouts are unknown, but it is strongly believed he is hiding out in the Eastern Cape.
The Institution said that another University employee, believed to have aided and abetted Ijeoma, has been placed on suspension.
"Whilst Ijeoma cut formal ties with the University, his last correspondence to the University came in the form of an attorney's letter spitting vitriol and in which he threatens the University with a "gag" order earlier this month."
