WeeklySA_AdminBUST: Luxury car bought with funds for charity registered to the Limpopo-based musician…
By Own Correspondent
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a preservation order from the Special Tribunal against renowned jazz musician Selaelo Selota – barring him from selling a luxury vehicle allegedly purchased with alleged misappropriated funds.
According to the SIU, the Mercedes Benz vehicle was purchased with National Lotteries Commission (NLC) funds which were meant for “building an old-age home and for providing elderly care in different provinces”.
“The SIU’s investigation uncovered that Selota’s luxury vehicle was purchased using funds diverted from three NPOs (non-profit organisations) that received NLC grants under suspicious circumstances,” the corruption busting unit said.
The three NPOs are:
• Matieni Community Centre had applied for R20 million in September 2017 and was granted R23 million – R3m more than requested – on 16 Oct 2017. They received R20 million from NLC in November and transferred R5.975 million to Mbidzo Development Programme
• Lethabong Old Age Home received R20 million from NLC in November 2017 and transferred R15 million to Mbidzo Development Programme
• War Against Rape and Abuse received R20 million from the NLC during December 2017 and transferred R5 million to Mbidzo Development Programme
“On 18 January 2018, Mbidzo Development Programme deposited R104 600.01 to a car dealership to purchase a Mercedes-Benz. Subsequently, on 23 January 2018, Mbidzo Development Programme paid the remaining R300 000 to finalise the transaction. The vehicle was registered to Selota shortly after.
“The order of the Special Tribunal is part of implementing SIU investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions because of corruption or negligence. The order forms part of a broader investigation into corruption involving NLC grants intended for community development projects.
“The SIU is empowered to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by corruption, fraud, or maladministration. In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
