The Special Investigating Unit says it’s preparing a detailed report that shows how more than R300 million was stolen and or misappropriated from the National Lotteries Commission.
The report will be handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa, but individual cases will also be dealt with by the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.
The SIU told Parliament on 02 March that it has sent the names of Lottery Board Members implicated in the looting of funds, for prosecution.
They are investigating 50 separate cases from as far back as ten years ago – with only 12 of the 50 cases finalized so far – the total of funds stolen from the National Lotteries Fund could rise sharply.
The SIU investigation has revealed that NLC senior official received R5.6M meant to change lives of the majority. The money was used to pay school fees, maths lessons and official’s farming business.
— Special Investigating Unit (SIU) (@RSASIU) March 2, 2022
Monies were allegedly funneled to board members via beneficiaries and even attorneys. It’s reported that some Lottery Board members bought houses, paid for school fees and even used the money to maintain a farm.
SHOCKER: Relatives of NLC official received funding worth R20.1M to build a museum in Northern Cape. R1.5M of the money paid for the construction of a house of NLC official. The museum project was completed. A quantity surveyor will be appointed to determine value for money. pic.twitter.com/913tSrcOnH
— Special Investigating Unit (SIU) (@RSASIU) March 2, 2022
In a statement the Democratic Alliance said: “The DA has been reliably informed that the allegations levelled against the NLC leadership includes acts committed by individuals including former board chairperson, Alfred Nevuthanda, former board member William Huma and, suspended COO, Philemon Letwaba.”
“A large portion of the allegedly misappropriated funds were intended for drug rehabilitation centres, old age homes, women and youth empowerment. They were allegedly spent on luxury cars and houses instead,” the statement added.
