ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES UNITE TO COMBAT FRAUD AND CORRUPTION
The City Integrity and Investigation Directorate (CIID) yesterday, 12 March, held a multidisciplinary engagement with external law enforcement agencies to exchange knowledge and strategies aimed at curbing fraud and corruption.
Speaking at the meeting, which was held at the Moses Mabhida Stadium,
CIID Director Jimmy Ngcobo said the Directorate’s mandate is derived from and aligned with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy.
“We have the authority to prevent and investigate fraud, corruption, criminal conduct, general misconduct and maladministration. Our goal is to prevent financial losses to the Municipality, foster a sustainable culture of integrity, accountability and trust, and promote zero tolerance for all forms of misconduct,” said Ngcobo.
He emphasised that collaboration with various stakeholders strengthens the Directorate’s capabilities.
“We are working closely with different stakeholders to enhance our skills and competencies, and to improve our accuracy and performance,” he said.
Ngcobo also encouraged businesses, residents and investigative journalists to report any alleged misconduct involving Municipal employees, noting that whistleblowing by external stakeholders is critical in combating criminal activities.
“We remain resolute and will not be influenced by politicians or senior management in carrying out our duties. Any implicated officials will be held accountable. We have the authority to investigate Municipal employees, Municipal entities, councillors and service providers,” he said.
Ngcobo added that the Directorate’s multipronged approach focuses on strengthening prevention strategies while ensuring investigations result in strong cases capable of leading to prosecution.
“Two employees were prosecuted for fraud late last year and earlier this year. One was found guilty of creating fraudulent purchase orders, falsifying signatures and approving invoices for goods that were never received. The second was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment for tampering with closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems. We will continue collaborating with external law enforcement agencies to combat fraud and corruption,” he said.
KwaZulu-Natal National Prosecuting Authority Specialised Commercial Crime Unit Deputy Director, Advocate Zama Zikhali, commended the CIID for creating a platform that promotes knowledge sharing and strengthens investigative outcomes.
“A well-prepared, impartial and comprehensive forensic report equips prosecutors with essential facts and evidence that assist in uncovering the truth during investigations,” said Zikhali.
She added that knowledge sharing enhances collaboration between investigators and prosecutors.
“This collaboration ensures that the work conducted during investigations translates into admissible, reliable and persuasive evidence in court. Our work must remain impartial, non-discriminatory and within the ambit of the law,” said Advocate Zikhali.
She noted that strong prosecutions help reinforce public confidence in the justice system and demonstrate that misconduct within public institutions will not go unchecked.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to report fraud and corruption to the CIID on 0800 20 20 20 or 031 311 4002, or via email at ombuds@durban.gov.za.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
