SIU to refer Home Affairs corruption and bribery cases to NPA

Source: EWN Traffic
Author: Kgomotso Modise

JOHANNESBURG - The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) said that it will work towards the prosecution of Home Affairs employees believed to be behind malfeasance at refugee reception centres in the country.

120 employees were flagged as persons of interest when the SIU raided five refugee centres on Friday.

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The watchdog is investigating allegations of corruption and bribery in the awarding of refugee status.

During Friday's search and seizure operation, the SIU and the Hawks seized computers, electronic pieces of equipment and documents for investigation.

Following a tip-off, investigators already had the names of the 120 persons of interest alleged to be part of corruption at the centres.

"We will then start off with consequence management, including prosecution. By law, we will have to refer this to the NPA [National Prosecuting Authority]," said SIU head Andy Mothibi.

Mothibi said that the corruption cuts across all levels, from senior management to junior employees.