Fraud and corruption: High-ranking education official arrested over R6. 5 million tender



The Northern Cape Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation team arrested Gobonamang Doris Sibiya, 59, Chief Director at the Department of Education’s Curriculum Management Unit, along with Tshegofatso Kenabatho Gopane, 44, the former Director of Tshela Bophelo Wellness Solution, and the entity itself.

The trio faces serious allegations of corruption, fraud, and money laundering in connection with a controversial R6.5 million tender awarded during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi, said that in May 2020, the department of education engaged Tshela Bophelo Wellness Solution to provide Covid-19 orientation and ongoing support for a total of 554 schools across Kimberley, including both the Head Office and five District Offices.

However, investigations have revealed discrepancies in the awarding of the contract, leading to a dire situation for the involved parties.

According to Mnisi, investigations revealed that Sibiya endorsed a motivation for Tshela Bophelo Wellness Solution to receive the contract under the single service provider method, as stipulated by the department’s Supply Chain Management Policy. However, the company allegedly failed to meet the specific requirements necessary for such a designation.

Furthermore, Mnisi added that evidence presented indicated that Sibiya allegedly accepted an unauthorised payment of R10,000 from Gopane, a transaction that was not declared, exacerbating the gravity of the situation.

sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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