South Africa Transport Department Orders Investigation Into Alleged R15 Million Financial Irregularities

PRETORIA, South Africa — September 6, 2026 (XOL Africa)  — South Africa’s National Department of Transport has ordered an independent investigation into allegations of financial irregularities involving approximately R15 million in payments made by the department.

The allegations were raised by Mr Esethu Hasane in an article published by Sunday World on August 30 under the headline “Whistleblower Alleges R15m Worth of Dubious Payments at DOT.”

The Department said it is treating the allegations seriously and has appointed Bowmans law firm to conduct an independent investigation.

The probe is already underway, according to the Department.

Independent probe launched

Acting Director-General Mathabatha Mokonyama ordered the investigation following the publication of the allegations.

The Department has appealed for the public and Hasane to allow the investigation to run its course before conclusions are reached.

It said remedial action would be taken if the investigation establishes that financial or administrative rules were breached.

The development places scrutiny on the Department’s financial controls and procurement processes at a time when public institutions face continued pressure to strengthen accountability and ensure that public funds are properly managed.

Department rejects victimisation allegations

The Transport Department has also rejected allegations by Hasane that he was victimised or harassed after raising concerns about financial irregularities.

In its response, the Department said claims of victimisation were “devoid of the truth”.

It cited a Pretoria Magistrate’s Court proceeding in which, according to the Department, Hasane’s application for a protection order was dismissed with costs.

The Department further stated that similar allegations were dismissed with costs by the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council.

It also said requests by Hasane for investigations into alleged harassment by the Public Protector and the Public Service Commission were unsuccessful.

These claims and the Department’s characterisation of the legal and institutional proceedings have been presented by the Department as part of its response to the allegations.

Findings awaited

The independent investigation by Bowmans is now expected to establish whether the payments identified in the allegations complied with applicable financial management, procurement and regulatory requirements.

Until the investigation is completed, the allegations remain unproven.

The Department has indicated that it will consider remedial measures should the investigation identify breaches of the regulatory framework.

The outcome of the probe could therefore determine whether further administrative or disciplinary action is required and provide greater clarity on the circumstances surrounding the alleged payments.