Kubayi condemns threats against SIU spokesperson over Maumela-linked luxury car ruling

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago. Picture: Gallo Images Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi has condemned threats to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) spokesperson, stressing that officials must work without fear, intimidation or harassment. The minister said concerns were about threats (direct or implied) directed at SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago in relation to Omar’s Motor Den.

The Mpumalanga luxury car dealership is at the center of allegations under investigation by the SIU in relation to the Tembisa Hospital tender involving Hangwani Maumela. This came after the Special Tribunal ordered that five cars that had been taken from Maumela’s property be given back to the dealership under certain guidelines. In the execution of his duties, Kganyago clarified the position of the SIU following the ruling.

He said that the Special Tribunal’s ruling does not weaken the SIU’s mandate but instead reaffirms its role in preserving and recovering state assets linked to alleged corruption. Kganyago stressed that the return of two Aston Martins, two Ferraris and a Rolls-Royce to Omar’s Motor Den is strictly conditional, with security equal to their full market value required and control remaining with the curator bonis. “The vehicles have not been lost to the SIU; their value is secured and the investigation continues,” he said.

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Omar accused the unit of falsely linking this dealership to the Maumela syndicate and said the claims made by the SIU and Kganyago were “reckless and damaging” to its reputation. “Any such attempts will be opposed and our client will, where appropriate, take steps to hold the SIU and its spokesperson accountable for such reckless utterances,” thedealership said in an interview with IOL.

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