Free State High Court Freezes R32 Million in Corruption Case

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News Summary

The Free State High Court issues a preservation order freezing R32 million related to a significant asbestos corruption scandal involving high-profile figures.

Free State High Court Freezes R32 Million in Corruption Case

In a dramatic turn of events, the Free State High Court has issued a preservation order freezing assets valued at R32 million linked to allegations of a vast asbestos corruption scandal. The order targets high-profile figures, including Ace Magashule, former Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), and several of his co-accused who allegedly profited from a scheme tied to the Free State Department of Human Settlements.

Details of the Preservation Order

The preservation order encompasses six properties, totaling R32 million, and a luxurious cash-purchased Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG valued at R2 million. The assets are reportedly linked to activities characterized by theft, fraud, corruption, and money laundering. Lawyers, real estate agents, and motor dealers have allegedly participated in a complex financial web to siphon resources from the provincial department, raising pressing concerns about the integrity of public office bearers and management.

Background on the Corruption Case

This latest ruling follows a previous restraint order issued in September 2020, which froze R300 million related to the same case. Prosecutors assert that the preservation order is a crucial step forward in efforts to adhere to recommendations from the State Capture Commission, aimed at recovering funds linked to unlawful contracts formed as part of the Free State Asbestos Eradication Project.

Criminal Charges and Ongoing Trial

A host of individuals, companies, and trusts now face serious criminal charges, including fraud, theft, money laundering, and violations of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and Asbestos Regulations. The high-stakes trial began on April 15 and includes prominent figures such as Magashule himself, his former personal assistant Moroadi Cholota, businessman Edwin Sodi, and former Free State MEC Olly Mlamleli, among others. Crucial testimonies from State investigating officers reveal an intricate narrative that is rapidly unfolding.

Legal Challenges and Witness Testimonies

Senior prosecutor Johan De Nysschen has raised alarms regarding the credibility of new transcripts that Magashule’s defense attorney seeks to introduce amidst the trial. Of particular note is the tumultuous case of Moroadi Cholota, once a key State witness who was extradited on account of her testimony. She now stands trial as an accused and contends that her extradition was unlawful, challenging the jurisdiction of the court.

Judicial Concerns and Evidence Scrutiny

As the trial progresses, the presiding Judge Phillip Loubser has expressed concern over the late introduction of the transcripts and why they were not submitted as evidence sooner. Cholota’s claims of facing repercussions for her unwillingness to implicate Magashule add a layer of complexity to the ongoing legal proceedings, with her past interviews with investigative officials drawing critical scrutiny.

Ongoing Developments

The courtroom drama continues to unfold with critical testimonies from State officials and ongoing disputes over the admissibility of evidence and the credibility of witnesses. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for all parties involved and for the governance of public funding. The public is now closely watching as the legal wheels turn in a case that has significant resonance within the corridors of power.