Hawks seize evidence linked to Simelane’s coffee shop ‘loan’ from Polokwane municipality

The Hawks target former PA of Justice Minister in daylight raid

The Hawks obtained a warrant in Limpopo to compel the PA to hand over passwords to private communication and documents. The investigation includes a suspicious R575,600 “loan” used to purchase a coffee shop in 2016.

The Hawks conducted a search based on a warrant on the former PA of Minister Simelane to gather evidence linked to corruption in Polokwane’s R349 million investment in VBS Mutual Bank. Simelane allegedly benefitted from a dubious R575,600 “loan” in connection to VBS.

The warrant, dated August 29, 2024, reveals investigations of a R349 million investment with VBS and possible violations. The warrant demanded the PA hand over devices and passwords. It’s believed the PA was a key communication link in the VBS case.

Simelane’s involvement in the coffee shop deal, paid for by VBS kickbacks, is under scrutiny. The delay in the Polokwane investigation was due to extensive VBS cases. Simelane maintains her innocence but faces calls for suspension pending investigations.

President Ramaphosa requested a report on the allegations and Simelane’s ANC integrity commission is reviewing the matter. Simelane, overseeing NPA investigations into VBS, faces potential conflict of interest concerns.