SIU secures confirmation order freezing properties and vehicles linked to R3.42m KZN library contract
The SIU has obtained a preservation order over three properties and five vehicles linked to a contractor and its owner in an investigation into alleged over-claiming and fraudulent invoices connected to a R3.42 million KwaZulu-Natal library project.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has obtained a confirmation order from the Special Tribunal to freeze three properties and five vehicles belonging to a KwaZulu-Natal company and its owner, in connection with a R3.42 million library construction project. The order, initially provisional, has now been confirmed. The investigation centers around a contract awarded in 2020 to Liyabongeka Trading Enterprises, owned by Thabile Jacqueline Xaba, by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sports, Arts and Culture for the construction of the Ntunjambili Library.
The SIU raises concerns about the contractor's selection, as they did not secure the highest score or the most cost-effective bid in the tender process. Additionally, the SIU uncovered fraudulent claims for services not provided, such as occupational health examinations, safety file updates, and a Covid-19 Compliance Officer. Liyabongeka Trading Enterprises allegedly submitted false invoices for these services, including a R6,325 claim for 11 occupational health examinations.
The SIU found that the contractor's work was materially less than that claimed and paid for. The asset-freezing order aims to preserve the assets while the SIU's investigation proceeds.
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