A new report by South Africa’s Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has placed suspended Gauteng Health official Lesiba Malotana under renewed scrutiny after investigators reportedly identified approximately R1.6 million in unexplained cash deposits made into multiple bank accounts.
According to the SIU, the money was deposited through numerous ATM transactions into six separate bank accounts over a three-year period. Investigators are examining whether the deposits are connected to the ongoing corruption investigation involving Tembisa Hospital, where more than R1.8 billion allocated for healthcare services was allegedly lost through fraudulent and irregular transactions.
The findings form part of a wider investigation into alleged financial misconduct within the Gauteng Department of Health. The SIU stated that several of the cash deposits could not be satisfactorily explained, prompting further questions about the origin of the funds and whether they were linked to unlawful activities.
Malotana was previously suspended after a lifestyle audit commissioned by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi reportedly identified him as a high-risk individual for possible corruption. Although he later submitted additional documents in response to concerns raised during the investigation, the SIU maintains that significant issues remain unresolved.
Authorities say the investigation is focused on uncovering the full extent of the alleged corruption and identifying anyone who may have benefited from the suspected misuse of public healthcare funds.
The Tembisa Hospital investigation has become one of Gauteng’s most closely watched corruption cases, attracting widespread public attention and increasing calls for accountability in the management of public resources.
Despite the SIU’s latest findings, no court has found Malotana guilty of any offence. The investigation is still ongoing, and any allegations against those implicated will ultimately be determined through the legal process.
The case has once again raised concerns about corruption within public institutions and the impact that the alleged misuse of taxpayer funds can have on the delivery of critical healthcare services to millions of South Africans.
