The Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team, along with the Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) unit and the Bloemfontein Tactical Response Team (TRT), executed a search and seizure operation at the Department of Human Settlements in Bloemfontein on 13 May. This action was prompted by accusations of fraud, corruption, and money laundering.
“During April 2024, the Provincial Department of Human Settlements referred information for criminal investigation to the Hawks’ in relation to the Financial Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP) where some officials were allegedly involved in fraudulent activities related to FLISP applications that were identified,” stated Free State Hawks Spokesperson, Fikiswa Matoti.
Following an internal investigation by the anti-corruption unit within the department, at least one department official was suspended. Subsequently, necessary procedures were implemented for a search to seize all pertinent original documents for the investigation.
The application for this search was approved by the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on 9 May 2024. During the operation, documents and electronic devices were confiscated. Investigations into this matter are currently ongoing.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
