MPUMALANGA - Raymond Manzini (45), Deputy Director of Disaster Management under COGTA, Chris Manzini (33), Moses Ndlovu (61) and Zalabantu Estate Trust appeared before the Nelspruit Magistrate on Monday, 30 May 2022 after they were arrested by the Hawks’ Nelspruit based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation the same day for Fraud and Contravention of the Public Finance Management Act.

Their arrest followed an investigation related to the tender which was advertised by the Department of Cogta for the supply of Personal Protective Equipment’s (PPE's) whereby during the process of the tender and the appointment, the company of the Deputy Director, Raymond Manzini's friend, Moses Ndlovu was appointed unlawfully with the influence of the Deputy Director.

After the appointment was made, Ndlovu did not have resources to supply the PPE's and was financially assisted by Manzini. After the delivery of the items, he invoiced the Department and from then repaid Manzini by depositing R6 million into the Deputy Director’s younger brother Chris Manzini’s account. The investigation linked the four accused with the case and the matter was brought before the court. Warrants of their arrest was executed hence their appearance in court.

The court granted the four accused inclusive of the company called Zalabantu Estate Trust bail of 15 000-00 each and the case was postponed to 28 July 2022 for further investigation. Additional arrest is eminent.

Major General Zodwa Mokoena reassured the communities that, “as the Hawks we shall not keep quiet when the state resources are being misused”. She further warned government employees to follow the correct procurement procedures.

Source: South African Police Service