NPA expropriates assets worth R75m in ‘blue lights’ tender scandal

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has seized R75 million assets of former police commissioner Khomotso Phahlane and six other former senior police officials in connection with R191 million blue light corruption scandal.

Items expropriated by the NPA are inclusive of 115 vehicles and 19 immovable properties linked to all the accused.

Corruption case relates to the unlawful tender awarded to a service provider, Instrumentation for Traffic Law Enforcement (Pty) Ltd, for the supply and fitment of blue lights and sirens to Gauteng SAPS vehicles.   

The director of this entity, Vimpie Manthata and his company, were awarded the contract and was paid approximately R65 million. This amount escalated to present-day estimates of R121 million. 

“The SAPS officials were mostly rewarded with cash payments, which in several instances appear to have covered their monthly expenses, leaving their salaries largely intact.

The evidence indicates that in certain instances, the reward was in the form of the purchase of luxury cars and expensive clothing and accessories paid for by Manthata,” said the NPA.

Investigations revealed that Manthata and some police officials were in constant communication during the procurement and payment process. 

“The communications are linked to the withdrawal of substantial amounts in cash by Manthata and the cash received by the Saps officials,” NPA said.

The AFU said on conviction of the accused it will proceed with an application to institute a confiscation inquiry aimed at the recovery of the stolen funds. 

The case against the accused will return in November 2, 2022.