The Progress Report
Monitoring and reporting on the progress of corruption cases in South Africa's Special Tribunal and Specialised Commercial Crimes Courts is essential. These institutions play a critical role in delivering justice, recovering misappropriated public funds, and holding officials accountable for financial crimes.
News
On 15 May 2025, the Special Tribunal heard a pivotal case questioning its authority to freeze and forfeit assets linked to corruption at the National Lotteries Commission.
Monitoring Corruption
Corruption is being dealt with in the courts
Significant progress is being made in the fight against corruption. The Special Tribunal and SCCCs have shown resilience and effectiveness in recovering stolen public funds and holding perpetrators accountable.
Expediting the recovery of public funds lost to corruption
The Special Tribunal, is a critical mechanism for recovering public funds lost to fraud and corruption, operating with greater efficiency than traditional courts while adjudicating civil disputes arising from SIU investigations.
Significant success through the Special Tribunal
The Special Tribunal's efforts have led to the recovery of over R2.28 billion in public funds. This demonstrates real progress in tackling corruption continuously delivering results that restore public trust and safeguard public resources.
Investigation, prosecution, and adjudication
There are 22 SCCCs across South Africa, located in various regional divisions. These courts, operating at the regional level, are dedicated to hearing commercial crime and organised commercial crime matters.
Case Updates
The SIU v Mosokodi Business Trust case, set for hearing on 15–16 May, could redefine the Special Tribunal’s power to recover misused public funds. At issue: a R4.4 million farm allegedly bought with Lottery money, and whether the Tribunal can legally order its forfeiture. The case includes a constitutional challenge to the SIU Rules, with the DGRU appearing as amicus curiae.
The SIU is taking decisive action against corruption by seeking to recover R150 million from Digital Vibes and associated individuals, following irregular contracts awarded by the National Department of Health.
In a landmark ruling, Hildegard Antionette Pieterse has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for defrauding Medtronic Africa of over R500 million. This case underscores the critical need for robust financial oversight in corporations.
The SIU and Eskom have taken a major step in tackling corruption with the recovery of R1.56 billion from ABB. This follows an investigation into a R2.2 billion irregular contract awarded for work at Kusile Power Station.
The State V Michelle Nunes and Rudi John Baker (Case No. SCCC 273/11) – Johannesburg SCCC: A landmark case on corporate fraud…