The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has revealed explosive findings of systemic corruption at Tembisa Hospital, where more than R2 billion meant for healthcare was siphoned off through fraudulent procurement schemes.
SIU head Advocate Andy Mothibi says three major syndicates orchestrated the looting in what he described as “a devastating plunder of the public purse and an egregious betrayal of the nation’s trust.”
How the money was stolen
The SIU’s interim report shows how at least 207 service providers benefited from 4,501 irregular purchase orders, all disguised as part of a supposed three-quote procurement process. In most cases, no goods were ever delivered.
The probe links senior officials at the Gauteng Department of Health (GDOH) and Tembisa Hospital to corrupt payments, bid-rigging, and money laundering. At least 15 current and former officials are implicated, with the value of corrupt payments to individuals estimated at over R122 million.
The syndicates
The Maumela Syndicate, linked to businessman Hangwani Morgan Maumela, is tied to contracts worth more than R816 million. Assets under review include luxury homes in Bantry Bay, Sandton, Zimbali, and Durban, along with multiple Lamborghinis and a Bentley Continental GT.
The Mazibuko Syndicate, linked to Rudolph Mazibuko, oversaw contracts worth R283 million and assets of at least R42 million.
Syndicate X is connected to contracts worth nearly R600 million and assets of about R150 million.
The SIU also flagged several smaller networks (Syndicates A–F) involving service providers who allegedly colluded with officials.
Whistleblowers and red flags
The late whistleblower Babita Deokaran first raised concerns in 2021 after flagging suspicious purchase orders at the hospital. Her warnings laid the groundwork for the SIU’s probe, which was officially authorised by a Presidential proclamation in 2023.
Next steps
The SIU has referred multiple cases to the National Prosecuting Authority for criminal prosecution and is pursuing civil litigation to freeze and recover assets through the Special Tribunal.
Disciplinary referrals against at least 13 officials have also been made to the Gauteng Health Department.
Mothibi said the investigation is ongoing and expected to conclude by November 2027. He emphasised the importance of lifestyle audits for officials and pledged protection for whistleblowers and investigators.
“This money was meant to heal the sick and serve the most vulnerable. Instead, it was stolen through a web of fraud and corruption. We will relentlessly follow the money and ensure that justice is done,” said Mothibi.
