Preservation Order: ANC NEC Member Accused in Fraudulent Tender Case
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has obtained a preservation order against a luxury property and vehicle linked to Pule Mabe, an African National Congress (ANC) national executive committee (NEC) member. This development forms part of the investigation into an alleged R27 million tender fraud dating back to 2017.
Luxury Assets Targeted in Corruption Investigation
The SIU announced it had secured the order to restrict the sale or transfer of specific assets, including:
- A luxury house located in Steyn City, Gauteng.
- A Porsche 911 Carrera GTS sports car.
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago explained, “The order restricts Mabe from selling, leasing, transferring, or otherwise dealing with specific assets.”
The unit has also filed a review application with the Special Tribunal to nullify the R27 million tender awarded to Groen Mintirho (formerly Enviro Mobi) and recover unlawfully paid funds.
Allegations and Tender Details
The tender in question was awarded by the Gauteng Agriculture and Rural Development Department in 2017. It was intended for supplying 200 three-wheeler vehicles to assist 59 waste pickers employed by the Ekurhuleni Municipality.
Mabe, alongside his wife Mmatlhekelo Elsie Mabe and business associate Tinyiko Mahuntsi, faces charges of corruption, fraud, and theft. He has denied the allegations, maintaining his innocence.
Other Accused
The case involves several high-profile individuals and entities, including:
- Gauteng Agriculture and Rural Development Chief Director Loyiso Mkwana.
- Former heads of department Thandeka Mbassa and Matilda Gasela.
- Former CFO Abdullah Mohamed Ismail.
- Two companies: KG Media (trading as Enviro-Mobi) and Star Mass Direct (trading as Kariki Media Holdings).
Court Proceedings
Last month, Mabe and his co-accused were granted bail of R30,000 each by the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court. During his bail application, Mabe disclosed a monthly income of R25,000 and claimed to reside with his family in Randburg.
Despite these claims, the preservation order shines a spotlight on his alleged ownership of the Steyn City property and the Porsche, suggesting a lifestyle that contradicts his stated financial situation.
SIU’s Commitment to Justice
The SIU continues to intensify efforts to recover state funds and hold those implicated in corruption accountable. The preservation order is part of a broader strategy to ensure justice and recover taxpayers’ money.
Also read: Covid-19 Tenderpreneur Hamilton Ndlovu Sentenced to 30 Days for Contempt of Court
