The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been authorised to probe security and VIP protection tenders in the eThekwini municipality in KwaZulu-Natal.

The investigation, approved by President Cyril Ramaphosa, will scrutinise tenders awarded between January 2004 and November 2024. The SIU investigation seeks to determine whether the process to award these tenders was conducted fairly and transparently and if the service providers delivered according to the tender specifications.

Moreover, the investigation will ascertain if there was any unlawful or improper conduct by the municipality’s employees, officials, agents or any other person or entity who may have corrupted or unduly benefited themselves or others from the tenders.

“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 January 2004 and 22 November 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 January 2004 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts,” said the SIU in a statement following the approval of the Proclamation.

The entity said that in line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), it will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

“The SIU is also authorised under the SIU Act to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration.”

In addition to addressing corruption, fraud, and maladministration, the SIU will also identify systemic failures within the municipality and recommend measures to prevent future losses.