While no arrests have been made in connection with the suspended officials implicated in alleged financial irregularities within the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights (CRLR), the Hawks have confirmed their investigation is at an advanced stage.
On Wednesday, the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso, approved the immediate suspension of the officials who worked at the Regional Land Claims office in the Eastern Cape.
It is unclear how many officials have been suspended.
Hawks spokesperson Yolisa Mgolodela said: “No arrest has been effected yet, but the investigation is at an advanced stage.”
Nyhontso said the allegations were being treated with the “utmost seriousness, and swift measures have been taken to ensure a full and thorough investigation by relevant authorities”.
The department said: “Interim measures have been implemented to ensure the continued efficiency of service delivery in the affected province.
“Further suspensions are expected, amid the ongoing investigation. The CRLR is committed to maintaining transparency and integrity throughout this process.”
Chief Land Claims Commissioner Nomfundo Ntloko has initiated a process to address and rectify weaknesses identified in the standard operating procedures that were exploited in the alleged irregular activity.
Nyhontso warned that corruption within the department would not be tolerated, and tough action would be taken against any implicated officials.
“Corruption undermines the commitment to restore land rights and provide restitution to rightful beneficiaries,” said Nyhontso.
The commission was co-operating fully with law enforcement agencies.
The public has been urged to report all suspected fraudulent activities related to land claims to the department.
Cape Times