The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) is under intense scrutiny after the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) executed a high-profile raid at its Braamfontein headquarters on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.

The operation forms part of an escalating investigation into irregular tenders allegedly worth a staggering R18 billion.

In a letter released on Saturday, July 26, 2025, following the raid, Prasa stated that it is “fully cooperating” with the Hawks after the seizure of laptops, cell phones, and critical documentation from senior executives’ offices.

The agency emphasised its commitment to transparency, accountability, and its core mission of providing safe, reliable, and efficient rail services to the public.

The Hawks obtained a search warrant to collect various information and electronic devices amid increasing allegations of corruption and mismanagement at the agency.

However, authorities have been tight-lipped about the specifics, aiming to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

Prasa welcomed the Hawks’ involvement and assured the public that it has nothing to hide and remains committed to supporting all legitimate investigative processes.

”The Agency has nothing to hide and stands ready to provide complete cooperation to law enforcement authorities,” said Prasa. 

Prasa also said it will “provide further updates as appropriate, while respecting the integrity of the ongoing investigation.”

National spokesperson for the Hawks, Brigadier Thandi Mabombo, confirmed the operation, stating: “An operation was conducted as part of an ongoing investigation. To protect the integrity of our investigation, we cannot disclose details about that operation.”

hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za

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