Transnet has suspended nine employees who have been implicated in alleged collusion with suppliers.

The State-owned entity said disciplinary proceedings against three of the suspended employees have begun, with charges against other implicated officials imminent.

According to Transnet, an internal investigation in which 34 audits were undertaken across two operating divisions, for transactions concluded in the 2024/25 financial year, found that suppliers were overcharging Transnet by anything between 50% and 1000% across several items. The process to blacklist suppliers involved has also commenced.

“Transnet maintains a zero-tolerance stance on any form of impropriety. This extends beyond instances of overcharging, as such conduct directly undermines our operational efficiency and financial performance.

“We remain resolute in our commitment to eradicating corruption across the organisation and will not allow the conduct of a few individuals to derail the pursuit of our strategic objectives,” said Transnet group chief executive Michelle Phillips.

While the matter has been reported to law enforcement agencies, the entity said it is finalising targeted systemic improvements to detect and prevent the recurrence of such practices.

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