SIU Expands Probe into Water Dept to Include ‘Drop the Block’ Project

The expanded probe now includes the controversial “Drop the Block” Project, a large-scale initiative linked to the department and its implementing agencies.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has widened its investigation into the Department of Water and Sanitation, following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to sign a new proclamation authorising a broader scope of inquiry. The expanded probe now includes the controversial “Drop the Block” Project, a large-scale initiative linked to the department and its implementing agencies.

Expanded Scope of Investigation

In a statement, the SIU confirmed that Proclamation 287 of 2025 amends an earlier proclamation, extending the unit’s mandate to investigate maladministration within the department. The latest directive covers the “Drop the Block” Project and its execution by the department and its implementing agents, Lepelle Northern Water and Sedibeng Water.

The investigation will also focus on all suppliers and service providers involved in the project. Initially, the probe only extended to the Department of Water and Sanitation and Sedibeng Water, but the inclusion of Lepelle Northern Water and private contractors significantly broadens the inquiry’s reach.

New Time Frame and Investigative Focus

The SIU’s investigation period has been extended to cover transactions, contracts, and conduct from 1 January 2015 to 12 September 2025. This widened timeframe allows the corruption-busting unit to examine a full decade of activities connected to the project.

The unit explained that the scope now includes:

• Unlawful or improper conduct by departmental officials, employees, and service providers.

• Unlawful appropriation or misuse of public funds allocated for the project.

• Serious harm caused to public interests due to maladministration or corruption.

Aims of the Investigation

According to the SIU, the investigation is not only aimed at uncovering misconduct but also at identifying systemic weaknesses that may have enabled corruption or maladministration to occur.

“In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses,” the statement read.

This dual approach — accountability for past wrongdoing and strengthening governance frameworks — is seen as a crucial step in safeguarding public resources.

Background: The “Drop the Block” Project

The “Drop the Block” Project was conceived as a water-saving initiative intended to reduce water loss and improve sanitation delivery in communities. However, questions have long surrounded its implementation, procurement processes, and financial management, prompting public concern over possible mismanagement.

With water security being one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges, any misuse of funds earmarked for water-saving projects poses a direct threat to service delivery and public trust.

Public Interest and Accountability

The expansion of the investigation signals the government’s acknowledgment of the seriousness of allegations tied to the project. It also reflects President Ramaphosa’s commitment to empowering the SIU to root out corruption and maladministration across critical sectors.

By holding public officials, implementing agencies, and private contractors accountable, the probe aims to restore public confidence in government-led water projects.

Next Steps

The SIU is expected to compile evidence and, where sufficient proof of criminal conduct exists, refer matters to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for possible prosecution. Civil litigation to recover financial losses may also follow.

The outcome of the investigation could have wide-ranging implications for the Department of Water and Sanitation and its partners, particularly in strengthening oversight mechanisms in future projects.