Minister Simelane Denies Eskom Corruption Allegations Amid Ongoing Investigations
Minister Thembi Simelane denies corruption allegations regarding her previous role at Vitrovian, which was contracted by Eskom. The ongoing trial in the Joshlin Smith case examines the admissibility of confession statements. Lastly, three men were murdered in a suspected taxi-related incident in Johannesburg, sparking police investigations.
Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane has refuted recent allegations of corruption linked to her previous position as a project director at Vitrovian, a firm contracted by Eskom. Reports from News24 allege that Vitrovian inflated prices for work at the Kusile power station during her tenure. Moreover, prior scrutiny surrounded a loan she received through a middleman associated with the defunct VBS Mutual Bank. In her defense, spokesperson Tsekiso Machike characterized the claims as misleading and labeled the coverage as “gutter journalism.”
In a separate case, Captain Wesley Lombard, the investigating officer in the Joshlin Smith matter, is scheduled to continue testifying in a trial within a trial aimed at assessing the admissibility of confession statements from the defendant, which were allegedly secured under duress. Lombard previously indicated that inconsistencies in the testimony of co-accused Stevano van Rhyn raised suspicions. Defense attorney Nobahle Mkabayi challenged Lombard’s rationale for her client’s detainment, highlighting that previous investigators had cleared him. Despite this, Lombard maintained that van Rhyn’s claim contradicted other evidence. Cross-examination of Lombard will proceed in court.
Moreover, three men were tragically shot and killed in what is believed to be a taxi-related incident in Vlakfontein, situated south of Johannesburg. The Gauteng police have initiated an investigation into the murders, prompting a call for public assistance, urging anyone with information to reach out to the Crime Stop Line at 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tips via the MySAPS App.
In summary, Minister Thembi Simelane has firmly rejected corruption allegations associated with her past role at Vitrovian, calling the claims misleading. Meanwhile, the ongoing trial involving Joshlin Smith continues to unfold, with critical testimonies revealing the complexities of the case. Additionally, a fatal taxi-related attack in Johannesburg highlights ongoing violence in local transport disputes, prompting police investigations and public appeals for information.
Original Source: allafrica.com
