Special Tribunal Dismisses Pro Secure's Exception Application in PPE Procurement Case

“The SIU is empowered to take legal action to address corruption, fraud, and maladministration. We are committed to ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of public funds,” the SIU’s statement read.

The Special Tribunal has dismissed, with costs, an exception application filed by Pro Secure (Pty) Ltd concerning the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) by the Limpopo Department of Health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision follows an investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) into PPE procurement contracts valued at approximately R182 million, where Pro Secure was among the service providers. The SIU's investigation revealed irregularities in the appointment of service providers, including Pro Secure, Clinipro (Pty) Ltd, and Ndia Business Trading (Pty) Ltd.

The SIU stated, "This ruling supports our stance on the irregular procurement of PPE by the Limpopo Department of Health during the pandemic. The investigation uncovered significant irregularities, resulting in approximately R182 million in irregular and/or fruitless and wasteful expenditure by the department."

The investigation was initiated following a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which authorized the SIU to probe allegations of corruption, maladministration, and malpractice related to PPE procurement. The SIU is tasked with addressing any wrongdoing through civil action in the High Court or Special Tribunal and referring evidence of criminal conduct to the National Prosecuting Authority for further prosecution.

“The SIU is empowered to take legal action to address corruption, fraud, and maladministration. We are committed to ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of public funds,” the SIU’s statement read.