
The former Minister of the State Security (SSA) ,Bongani Thomas Bongo appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates Court today after being arrested on charges of corruption. The 47-year-old was granted R5000 bail, and his case has been postponed to 4 March 2025.
According to the Hawks, the 47-year-old former minister served in the National Assembly and as a Member of the Executive and Cabinet until 28 May 2024. The accused was arrested on charges of corruption whereby he approached member of the then Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises between September and October 2017. Reportedly, the purpose of the alleged interaction was to arrange a meeting to prevent a scheduled sitting where the Eskom team was to account for its activities.
During the meeting, the accused allegedly suggested that the session could be cancelled if the committee member accepted a bribe, referred to as “gratification“.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), led by Lieutenant SG Lebeya confirmed the arrest and that the case is being handled by its National Serious Corruption team. Lebeya applauded the Directorate’s commitment to pursuing justice.
The Directorate will continue to execute its mandate without fear, favour, or prejudice. I applaud the efforts of the investigation team and encourage the prosecution to ensure that justice is served for the South African public.
The accused is bound by the Code of Ethics as well as other obligations under the Constitution, the Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act, and the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act (PRECCA). The allegations, if proven, will represent a significant breach of these ethical and legal obligations.