The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been granted an order to freeze money held in bank and investment accounts linked to Digital Vibes and individuals connected to the company.

A furore erupted after it emerged Digital Vibes had been awarded a R150-million contract by the Health Department for communications work related to COVID-19.

The SIU’s confirmed less than a fraction of that money has been retrieved.

The unit says its investigation into the matter is ongoing.

“The SIU will launch review proceedings in the Special Tribunal within the next 30 working days, and also seek an order against Digital Vibes and other relevant entities/individuals to pay back all financial losses suffered by the State as a consequence of the appointment of Digital Vibes by the Department,” a statement from the SIU read.