SIU Freezes Properties Linked to Former Lotteries Boss and Musician Arthur Mafokate
The South African Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has frozen properties belonging to musician and former lotteries boss, Arthur Mafokate, as they are believed to be linked to a R56 million fraud at the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).
According to the SIU, the fraud at the NLC was discovered during an investigation into alleged corruption, maladministration, and mismanagement at the commission. The investigation revealed that Mafokate, who was appointed as the CEO of the NLC in 2015, allegedly used his position to award contracts to companies that he had an interest in, resulting in the loss of millions of rand in public funds.
The SIU has now obtained a court order to freeze several properties belonging to Mafokate, including his luxury home in the affluent suburb of Midrand, as well as several other properties in Gauteng. The order also allows the SIU to seize any money or assets that may be found on the properties.
Mafokate, who is also a well-known musician in South Africa, has denied any wrongdoing and has stated that he will fight the allegations made against him.
The freezing of Mafokate’s properties is the latest development in the ongoing investigation into the NLC, which has already led to the arrest of several individuals, including the former chairperson of the commission, who is currently facing charges of corruption and fraud.
This case highlights the ongoing issue of corruption in South Africa, particularly in the public sector. The SIU and other investigative bodies have been working to crack down on corruption, with the aim of recovering stolen public funds and bringing those responsible to justice.
In the meantime, it remains to be seen what will happen to Mafokate and his properties as the case moves forward. The public is eagerly waiting for the outcome of the investigation and hoping for justice to be served.
Mseveni