Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Velani Ludidi
Published on 2024-04-01 18:17:56
Police have recently made a significant development in the investigation into murder and attempted murder cases at Fort Hare University with the arrest of 15 additional individuals. Among those arrested are a former member of the South African Police Service who now works in the security sector, as well as 14 suspended staff members, including senior personnel who were undergoing disciplinary proceedings at the time of their arrest. These individuals include a human resources director, a supply chain manager, and a member of the security and protection services team at the university.
The arrests were made by the national task team assigned to investigate the incidents, bringing the total number of suspects apprehended in connection with the case to 25. The arrests took place over the Easter weekend in various provinces, including Gauteng, the Eastern and Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. The charges filed against the suspects range from fraud and corruption to kidnapping, murder, and attempted murder.
The suspects are scheduled to appear in the Dimbaza Magistrates’ Court in the Eastern Cape on Tuesday, 2 April 2024. National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, emphasized that the task team will continue its work diligently to uncover the truth behind the fraud, corruption, and murders at the university. Both Police Minister Bheki Cele and Masemola are expected to be present at the court proceedings on Tuesday.
Fort Hare University confirmed its awareness of the arrests but stated that it would provide further comments after being briefed on Tuesday. The arrests follow a series of murders that have shaken the university community and are believed to be linked to a tender corruption syndicate that has significantly impacted the institution financially.
The timeline of events leading up to the arrests includes the appointment of Professor Sakhela Buhlungu as the vice-chancellor of the university in 2017. His tenure has been marked by student and staff protests, investigations into maladministration, and sweeping reforms that uncovered alleged syndicates operating within the university. The murders of Petrus Roets and Mboneli Vesele, key personnel at the university, have been linked to these corrupt activities.
The arrests made in connection with the murders include university employees, students, a local businessman and lawyer, and alleged hitmen from KwaZulu-Natal. The case has revealed a complex web of corruption and criminal activities within the university, prompting a thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies.
As the investigation continues to unfold, the authorities remain committed to bringing those responsible for the crimes to justice and ensuring that the victims receive closure. The ongoing efforts to address corruption and criminal activities at Fort Hare University highlight the importance of upholding the rule of law and holding accountable those who undermine justice and integrity within educational institutions.
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