The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has uncovered a staggering R2 billion fraud scheme at Tembisa Hospital, revealing a tangled web of corruption and financial misconduct.
The unit described the scandal as “a devastating plunder of the public purse,” sending shockwaves through the Gauteng healthcare system.
Three Syndicates Identified in Complex Investigation
According to the SIU’s interim report released on Monday, three criminal syndicates are believed to be behind the scheme.
The investigation, which is expected to conclude in November 2027, involves 207 service providers linked to 4,501 purchase orders at the hospital.
The findings suggest a highly organized operation that manipulated procurement processes for personal gain.
Officials Accused of Corruption and Enrichment
The probe has already identified key officials from the Gauteng Department of Health as beneficiaries of the corrupt activities.
Allegedly, these officials facilitated irregular appointments of service providers, resulting in corrupt payments totaling R122 million.
“These individuals abused their positions throughout the procurement process to benefit these providers and enrich themselves,” the SIU said.
“The number of identified officials is expected to rise as the investigation continues, ranging from entry-level clerks to management-level staff.”
Gauteng Government Responds to Findings
The office of Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi welcomed the report, praising it as part of the provincial government’s ongoing fight against corruption.
While the government had long suspected irregularities in the hospital’s supply chain, the scale of the revelations was described as “shocking” and “disturbing.”
The provincial administration pledged to collaborate with the Department of Health to implement the SIU’s recommendations and urged law enforcement agencies to act decisively on the evidence.
“We view this as a critical step in honouring Babita Deokaran’s legacy and fulfilling our promise that her death would not be in vain,” Lesufi said.
“The people of Gauteng deserve accountability, and we will leave no stone unturned to achieve it.”