Moitheri “Terry” Pheto has been accused of diverting funds looted from the National Lottery Commission (NLC) and using them to purchase her Bryanston home. As a result, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) launched an investigation into the matter and was granted a preservation order by the Pretoria High Court to freeze Pheto’s Bryanston home [4].
On Monday, the SIU accepted an offer of R3.9 million for Pheto’s home, which was purchased with funds that were intended for community development projects [6]. The proceeds from the sale will be returned to the NLC for use in these projects. It is important to note that Pheto has denied any involvement in the alleged fraud and maintains her innocence [5].
This case is just one of many investigations conducted by the SIU into corruption and maladministration in South Africa. The SIU has been authorized to investigate a variety of allegations, including corruption and maladministration at the Newcastle Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal [1], fraud, theft, and contraventions of the Lotteries Act against officials of the NLC [2], and possible charges against Health Minister Dr. Zweli Mkhize and his son over Digital Vibes payments [3].
Overall, the SIU is committed to investigating allegations of corruption and maladministration in South Africa and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.