PPE probe: ‘Langeberg followed the rules’

THE LANGEBERG Municipality has welcomed the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into the appointment of five NGOs which assisted the municipality with Covid-19 humanitarian relief efforts.

This followed the unit’s investigation team visit to the municipality last week.

The SIU previously conducted search and seizure operations in the Matzikama and Cederberg municipalities relating to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) procurement.

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said the investigation at Langeberg municipality was ongoing.

Acting municipal manager, Anton Everson said when the unit visited the municipality last week they interviewed certain officials and also requested access to several documents relating to the appointment of the NGOs and this was provided to them.

He said no arrests were made, no computer was seized, and no official is suspected of any wrongdoing at this time.

“We are certain that we have followed all the rules, have done everything according to the prescripts and are confident that the investigation would confirm this.

“We will continue to co-operate and support the SIU in their investigation and will continue to provide them access to any relevant documentation or official that might help them with their important and much-needed investigation,” Everson said.

Meanwhile the Western Cape has 10057 cases as of yesterday.

Premier Alan Winde said they were considering a variety of different tools and approaches to tackle the resurgence in the Western Cape.

“At this stage, no decision has been taken yet on localised restrictions, and we are still seeking legal advice on what is possible given that disaster restrictions are imposed by the National Government, and not by provinces.

“We will communicate our plan of action at this week’s Digital Press Conference, held on Thursday. I must reiterate that the main priority right now is to prevent a lockdown, that would devastate our economy.”