Police Say Ralph Stanfield Housing Tender Fraud Case Far From Over Despite Charges Being Withdrawn

Authorities in the Western Cape have clarified that the investigation into an alleged R1 billion housing tender fraud—implicating alleged 28s gang boss Ralph Stanfield and others—is still ongoing, despite recent legal developments.

On May 23, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) provisionally withdrew commercial charges against ten individuals, including Ralph Stanfield, his wife Nicole Johnson, and former City of Cape Town human settlements MMC Malusi Booi. However, police and prosecutors have both stressed that this does not mark the end of the case.

The accusations stem from an alleged corruption scheme during Booi’s time in office. The group is accused of manipulating housing development tenders to benefit companies connected to them—diverting public funds meant for community housing projects.

While the temporary withdrawal of charges may appear like a setback, Western Cape SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa insists the investigation is still very much active.

“In cases as complex as this one, it’s not unusual for investigations to shift direction when new evidence emerges,” said Potelwa. “That’s exactly what’s happened here. As investigators uncovered additional information, we needed to adapt and incorporate it.”

She emphasised that this does not reflect a failure in the investigation but rather a recalibration based on legal protocols and fresh findings. “The charges were provisionally withdrawn to allow investigators to fully process new information. These charges are expected to be reinstated once the investigation concludes,” Potelwa explained.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila echoed this view, stating the decision was procedural. “The 16 commercial charges have been provisionally withdrawn to allow the team to finalise its investigation, following the discovery of new evidence,” he said. “Once completed, the charges will be reinstated.”

This case continues to stir public concern, as it involves senior political figures and a vast sum meant for public benefit. Authorities maintain that no one is above the law, and they are committed to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

{Source: IOL}

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