ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
18 NOVEMBER 2022
CITY MAKING STRIDES IN ADDRESSING FRAUD AND CORRUPTION
The scourge of fraud and corruption can only be eliminated through the cooperation of stakeholders. This sentiment was shared by representatives from various organisations that attended the eThekwini Municipality Fraud and Corruption Awareness Seminar held on 17 November at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
The seminar was hosted by the City Integrity and Investigations Unit (CIIU) in partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). It forms part of the annual International Fraud and Awareness Week which is observed from 13 to 19 November.
Head of the CIIU Mbuso Ngcobo said the City will continue to develop and implement strategies to promote good ethics as well as anti-fraud and anti-corruption programmes in the Municipality. “We are making strides in this regard. For example, five employees have been found guilty of corrupt activities. In addition, we are currently investigating cases of jobs for sale, nepotism, and jobs for in return for favours. Several arrests have been made,” said Ngcobo.
In the 2020/2021 financial year, the CIIU assisted the Municipality to recover about R12 million from fraudulent transactions. During the 2021/22 financial year, 18 companies were blacklisted because of fraud and corruption and in the same period 49 officials resigned who were under investigation for fraud, corruption, and maladministration. Ngcobo said as of October 2022, they have 118 cases under consequence management, and 21 criminal cases are registered with the law enforcement agencies.
The City’s Chief Financial Officer Dr Sandile Mnguni said consequence management is key to eliminating corruption. “Corruption eats into funds earmarked for service delivery and perpetuates poverty, unemployment, and inequality,” said Dr Mnguni.
KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Public Protector Advocate Mlandeli Nkosi said their office is accessible for the public to report fraud or corruption.
“We investigate conduct in any sphere of government that is alleged to be improper and results in any impropriety or prejudice. Citizens must report without any fear of favour,” said Advocate Nkosi.
National Prosecuting Authority Deputy Director Advocate Bheki Manyathi warned those contemplating committing fraud and corruption that they will be arrested. “The tide has turned, people found guilty will be held accountable,” said Advocate Manyathi.
Residents are encouraged to report incidents of unethical conduct and maladministration which relate to the Municipality to the CIIU on 0800 20 20 20 (tollfree) or 031 311 4002. Alternatively, they can email Ombuds@durban.gov.za.
ENDS
Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela.
For more information contact 031 311 4820/18.
