The Hawks have launched a significant investigation into the Newcastle Municipality, conducting a raid at the municipal offices this week.
Image: File
The Hawks conducted a search and seizure operation at the offices of the Newcastle Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal this week amid an ongoing investigation.
The Newcastle Local Municipality confirmed that the Hawks conducted an authorised operation at its premises on March 24. While the municipality refused to divulge details of the investigation, according to the DA it is believed that the matter is related to the award of tenders.
In a statement, the municipality said it “recognises the constitutional mandate of law enforcement agencies” and reaffirmed its “unwavering commitment to the principles of accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.”
“The institution is extending its full cooperation to the investigative authorities to ensure that due process is upheld without hindrance,” the municipality said.
It stressed that the investigation remains active and ongoing, adding that it would limit public comment.
“The municipality will refrain from engaging in commentary that may prejudice or compromise the integrity of the process. All matters will be addressed within the confines of applicable legal and governance frameworks.”
Officials added that municipal services remain unaffected and that further updates would be issued “through official municipal platforms as and when appropriate.”
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal noted the operation by the Hawks.
DA Amajuba constituency head Dr Imran Keeka said the party “notes with serious concern the latest reports that the Hawks have confiscated electronic devices belonging to senior officials, along with a substantial volume of documents, from offices at Newcastle Municipality.”
Keeka said the developments were “said to be linked to matters raised during the recent oversight visit and interrogation by Parliament’s national CoGTA Portfolio Committee”, and pointed to allegations including “the construction of a short stretch of road at a disproportionately high cost, the provision of VIP toilets and the hiring of heavy machinery under dubious circumstances.”
The DA said it would continue to monitor the matter as more information becomes available.
Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said the operation was part of an ongoing Hawks investigation and no further details could be divulged at this stage.
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