Corruption Crackdown: Pretoria High Court Officials Suspended Amid Hawks Probe

Three officials at the Pretoria High Court have been placed on precautionary suspension following serious allegations of fraud and corruption. The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) confirmed the suspensions on Tuesday, saying they took effect on 14 May 2025.

While the officials’ names remain withheld, the OCJ said the suspensions are linked to an ongoing investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation—better known as the Hawks—into irregular and fraudulent activities within the court system.

“The officials were therefore placed on precautionary suspension to allow investigations to proceed without being compromised,” the OCJ said in a statement. “We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption.”

This move comes as part of a broader cleanup effort across South Africa’s justice system. In April, IOL News reported that 54 officials were dismissed from the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJCD) for various offences ranging from corruption to maladministration.

More dismissals across the justice department

In a recent statement, Justice Department spokesperson Terrence Manase detailed the department’s crackdown efforts for the 2024/25 financial year. A total of 223 labour relations cases were addressed, with 164 finalised. Among these, 54 led to dismissals, while others resulted in disciplinary measures such as written warnings and suspensions.

“Fifteen of the dismissals occurred between January and April 2025, reflecting a faster pace in addressing gross misconduct,” Manase noted.

Criminal prosecutions underway

In addition to the internal actions, 15 of the misconduct cases have been referred for criminal investigation and prosecution—signalling the government’s intent to move beyond disciplinary action and pursue justice through the courts.

Common infractions among the dismissed officials included fraud, theft, dishonesty, absenteeism, and damage to property.

What this means for South Africans

The Pretoria High Court case is part of a broader effort to restore faith in public institutions. With both the OCJ and the Department of Justice taking decisive action, government leaders hope to send a clear message: corruption in the justice system will not be tolerated.

As investigations continue, affected courts may experience operational disruptions, but officials have reassured the public that core services will remain intact.

{Source: IOL}

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