VANDERBIJLPARK – The Emfuleni Local Municipality has taken a firm stand against corruption by launching a criminal case involving R16m in irregular spending.

On April 17, Municipal Manager April Ntuli formally opened a criminal case against several municipal employees and service providers implicated in the matter with the local police.

The investigation focuses on gross mismanagement within the fleet department, specifically regarding how assets were bought, maintained, insured, and verified.

Beyond the police report, the municipality has already started disciplinary action against the implicated employees.

ELM spokesperson Makhosonke Sangweni confirmed that companies or directors found to be part of the scandal will be blacklisted.

Ntuli emphasised that the administration will not tolerate the abuse of public resources and is committed to rooting out corporate wrongdoing.

“The municipality is going to ensure that all disciplinary processes proceed with vigour. Our administration stands for clean governance, transparency, and the protection of public funds,” he added.

The municipality has handed over the matter and all necessary documents to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

The municipality is calling on the local community for its support as it fights to protect public funds.

“We remain confident that the South African justice system will investigate, prosecute, and hold accountable those who abuse public office for personal gain,” said the municipality.

Further updates will be provided as the matter progresses.