EASTERN CAPE – The sole signatory of Qush Cleaning and Garden Services, Yolisa Qusheka Songca (43) and Walter Qusheka (49), who is in charge of the affairs of the company, were released by the East London Magistrates’ Court on R5000 00 bail each whereas Vuyokazi Rejoice Qusheka (35), who is employed by the company, was released on warning for allegations of fraud and corruption on 25 March 2022.

It is alleged that on 25 February 2013, the University of Fort Hare entered into a cleaning contract with Qush Cleaning and Garden Services for the rendering of cleaning services. It is further alleged that the university agreed to pay R750 000 monthly as consideration for services rendered as specified in the contract. The contract is reported to have excluded certain cleaning services the company had to render on a monthly basis. Allegations are that for any additional services outside the contract, the company would claim separately and be paid.

Between 12 August 2016 and 26 March 2018, the company is alleged to have submitted quotations and invoices to the University for such additional services. The additional services were allegedly either procured in a fraudulent manner or never rendered at all.

Quotations submitted are reported to have been duly approved by an employee at the university. The company is reported to have been paid more than R13.9 million for additional services. It is further alleged that during the said period more than R4.1 million was paid by the company to bank accounts designated by an employee at Fort Hare.

The matter was reported to the East London based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team of the Hawks for investigation which culminated in the arrest of the trio and the family company on 25 March 2022.

The matter was remanded for 14 April 2022 pending further investigations.

Source: South African Police Service