| 2024/08/08 |
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Joint Media Statement
FREE STATE – Following a lengthy process involving the Hawks, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and Interpol, a 37-year-old South African woman who is based in the United States of America (USA) has been successfully extradited and placed under arrest. The extradition was approved by USA authorities on 31 July 2024. She arrived in South Africa on Thursday, 8 August 2024 and was processed by the Hawks detectives to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court on Monday, 12 August 2024. She was the personal assistant to former Free State Premier, Ace Magashule when crimes relating to the R255 million asbestos contract were allegedly committed. It is alleged that the Free State Department of Human Settlements awarded the contract in a joint venture between businessman Edwin Sodi’s Blackhead Consulting (Pty) Ltd and Diamond Hill Trading without following proper procurement processes. Sodi, Magashule, former Head of Department Ntimose Mokhesi, former MEC Sarah Mlamleli, and others have made court appearances for fraud, corruption, money laundering, and contravention of the Public Finance Management Act. A total of 18 accused, including five companies, are expected back in the Free State High Court sitting in Bloemfontein for trial from 15 April 2025 to 23 June 2025. Ends
Enquiries:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane (NPA Spokesperson)
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