Hawks investigating Pule for corruption

The Hawks are investigating corruption charges laid by the DA against former communications minister Dina Pule, a spokesman confirmed.

"Yes, the matter was reported in the Western Cape Central police station, but now the matter is in our hands. We are giving it the attention it deserves," said Captain Paul Ramaloko

"We just started investigations recently, that is why we are not at liberty to be much vocal about it. Maybe if you come after a month or two we will be able to talk," he said.

In May, the Democratic Alliance submitted an affidavit to the Cape Town central police station asking it to probe possible criminal activities by Pule, Phosane Mngqibisa, who was said to be her boyfriend, suspended SABC Chief Financial Officer Gugu Duda and current CEO Lulama Mokhobo.

The Sunday Times had reported allegations that Mngqibisa orchestrated the appointment of friends and family to key organisations in Pule's portfolio.

Nomakhaya Malebane, a former confidante and business partner of Duda, alleged to the Sunday Times that she was given the position at the SABC as a result of her friendship with Mngqibisa.

Malebane reportedly alleged that Pule organised that Duda be selected by the board, even though her CV was received late.

The Sunday Times also reported that Mngqibisa allegedly organised the appointment of his relative Lulama Makhoba to the post of SABC CEO.

On July 9, President Jacob Zuma axed Pule during a Cabinet reshuffle.

She was replaced by former co-operative government and traditional affairs deputy minister Yunus Carrim.

Democratic Alliance MP Marian Shinn said on Sunday that the party was not pleased with the progress made in the investigation.

"... They have failed to give adequate feedback on exactly what they have been doing since I was informed in June that the case has been escalated," she said.

She said the uncertainty surrounding the docket raised concerns about whether political interference in the case might be preventing progress.