A recent arrest has sent shockwaves through Eskom, as another manager faces charges of fraud, corruption, and money laundering, allegedly involving illicit dealings with the power utility. Thandi Ruth Magagula, a safety risk manager at Eskom, found herself in the clutches of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (commonly known as the Hawks). The accusations stem from her alleged involvement in fraudulent activities dating back to April 2013 to July 2015.
Magagula, aged 40, appeared before the Middelburg Regional Court and was granted bail set at R10,000. The case has been adjourned until March 26, slated for the Middelburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.
According to Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi, spokesperson for the Mpumalanga Hawks, Magagula’s alleged misdeeds came to light when it was discovered that she concurrently served as a director of Montoza Engineering and Project 9 while employed by Eskom. The company, it’s reported, provided services to Eskom during her tenure.
The matter was brought to the attention of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), who uncovered Magagula’s failure to disclose this apparent conflict of interest to Eskom. Subsequently, the Hawks launched an investigation, which revealed purported discrepancies in Magagula’s declaration forms and tender documents submitted to Eskom.
The investigation alleges that Magagula’s actions resulted in a loss of R58,888 for Eskom, as her company conducted business with the utility. Following the completion of the investigation, a warrant for Magagula’s arrest was issued and executed on February 9.
Major General Nicholas Gerber, the provincial head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, applauded the diligence of his team in uncovering the alleged malfeasance. He emphasized the commitment of the Hawks to pursue justice without bias.
This incident comes on the heels of another Eskom manager, Nontuthubo Surprise Mahweliri, and three alleged accomplices facing charges related to fraud, theft, and money laundering. Mahweliri, along with her company and co-accused, were implicated in a case involving R1 million in fraudulent activities, according to Sekgotodi.
The unfolding saga underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Eskom and highlights the necessity for stringent oversight to curb corruption within the organization.
