Mpumalanga public works accountant sacked after link to COVID graft
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) welcomed the dismissal of Jacob Bandile Ngcobo, a Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport official, after an investigation uncovered corruption linked to the procurement of COVID-19 disinfection services.
SIU spokesperson, Selby Makgotho, said the investigation found that while Ngcobo worked as a state accountant for properties and facilities, he had an 'inappropriate and corrupt' relationship with Superia Services Trading.
"Superia Services Trading, owned by Ms Tshidi Suzan Sedibe, benefited from department-awarded contracts," said Makgotho.
The SIU alleged that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Superia Services Trading provided disinfection services, with the department paying the company R3 758 206.53 between July 2020 and September 2021.
Makgotho said an SIU analysis revealed that payments were made to Ngcobo shortly after Superia Services Trading received funds from the department.
He said the SIU found that between August of 2020 and March 2021, Ngcobo received R28 000 from the company.
The spokesperson added that Ngcobo was allegedly vital to Superia Services Trading in securing the contract, and that he did not declare the financial benefit received from the company. He said this created a conflict of interest.
"Based on these findings, the SIU referred the matter to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for prosecution and recommended disciplinary action against Ngcobo and five other officials in November 2021."
Makgotho said Ngcobo and Sedibe face charges in the Commercial Crimes Court in Mbombela.
"In July 2024, the Mpumalanga High Court granted a preservation order to seize assets worth about R52.6 million, linked to an alleged corruption network involving 22 officials, service providers, and entities in the department."
"Ngcobo’s bank accounts, assets, and bail money were frozen under the order."
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