SIU Launches Probe into Defence Department’s 2021 Surgical Mask Tender

A new investigation is underway into South Africa’s Department of Defence (DoD) over a 2021 surgical mask tender that may have involved irregular or unlawful conduct.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) received official authorisation on Friday to begin probing the contract, which focused on the procurement of elastic hoops for surgical masks—a deal concluded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the total value of the contract remains undisclosed, the SIU’s mandate is clear: uncover any signs of maladministration, corruption, or misconduct.

The investigation will examine transactions made between 1 March 2021 and 23 May 2025, and if wrongdoing is found, civil litigation or criminal referrals could follow.

Focus on Accountability

According to SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago, the investigation is not just limited to paperwork. It will dig into the conduct of DoD officials, suppliers, and any other parties involved. Any “irregular, unlawful, or improper” behavior that comes to light will be pursued.

The move has been welcomed by opposition parties. Chris Hattingh, Democratic Alliance spokesperson on military and defence, has been vocal in his criticism of the department, accusing it of repeated failures to act on red flags highlighted by the Auditor-General and parliamentary oversight bodies.

“Despite report after report, the Department has done nothing to clean house. Those implicated must be suspended immediately,” said Hattingh.

A Pattern of Mismanagement?

This isn’t the first time the Department of Defence has faced scrutiny. Earlier this year, the SIU exposed severe procurement failures tied to a R33.4 million Cuban antiviral medicine deal.

The DoD had already accepted and received 930 units of unapproved medicine before signing the agreement—raising alarm bells about how contracts are being managed. The drugs did not meet South African Health Product Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) standards, and only 15 doses were ever used, five of which were for testing purposes.

A Moment of Reckoning

Hattingh believes this latest investigation offers a chance for real change.

“South Africans deserve a defence force that upholds integrity—not one that falls apart due to corruption and weak leadership. This investigation must be a turning point.”

The outcome of the SIU’s probe could have broader implications for how tenders are managed across state departments and could signal a shift toward greater transparency and accountability in public procurement.

{Source: The Citizen}

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