On Friday, the South African Police Services (SAPS) raided the municipal offices of the City of Cape Town as part of a tender fraud investigation in the construction sector. The raid targeted the offices of JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, and Xanthea Limberg, another senior official.
According to Colonel Andrè Traut, spokesperson for the Western Cape SAPS, the operation was led by the Provincial Commercial Crimes Unit and is connected to an ongoing case involving multiple municipal officials and business owners.
Details of the Investigation
Colonel Traut emphasized the sensitivity of the investigation, stating:
- Ongoing Forensics: SAPS is conducting forensic investigations tied to court cases involving tender fraud within the City of Cape Town.
- Speculation Discouraged: At this stage, speculation about possible arrests, seized items, or specific individuals under investigation is premature.
- Court Focus: The priority is building a robust case for court proceedings.
Cape Town Mayor Responds
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis acknowledged the raid and requested an urgent briefing with SAPS to understand the specifics of the investigation.
“I note the raid by authorities at the offices of Alderman JP Smith and Xanthea Limberg, who have cooperated fully with SAPS. However, they have not yet been informed of the specific allegations. I will determine further actions once I have clarity from SAPS,” said Hill-Lewis.
Broader Context of Corruption Charges
This raid follows the ongoing legal proceedings against Malusi Booi, the former City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, and seven other individuals. They face 15 charges, including:
- Corruption
- Racketeering
- Intimidation
- Money laundering
- Conspiracy to commit fraud
The charges relate to tender irregularities involving the City of Cape Town. Notably, alleged gang leader Ralph Stanfield, reportedly linked to the 28s gang, and his wife, Nicole Johnson, have also been implicated.
Tender Fraud in the Spotlight
This raid underscores the growing scrutiny of alleged corruption within municipal structures in Cape Town. With ongoing investigations involving high-profile figures and allegations of criminal ties, the situation has raised concerns about governance and accountability in the city.
