Ex-Lotto exec’s pension frozen

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has obtained a preservation order against the R2.8 million pension payout of former National Lotteries Commission (NLC) chief operating officer Philemon Letwaba.

The unit instituted an investigation into allegations of corruption and maladministration at the NLC and the conduct of officials.

According to SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago, the investigation revealed Letwaba had allegedly “personally benefited” from NLC funding directed to at least six nonprofit organisations (NPO).

Letwaba allegedly “used friends and family businesses and trusts” to receive the money.

“In one ... it was revealed that a Limpopo-based NPO received approximately R25 million for the refurbishment of a torched school in Vuwani. Twelve days after the NPO received the money, it allegedly transferred approximately R4 million to Unbrand Properties without evidence of work being done and in violation of the funding agreement,” Kganyago said.

“The SIU approached the Special Tribunal on an urgent basis to freeze the pension benefits of Mr Letwaba after he resigned from the NLC pending the institution of a disciplinary hearing into his role in the distribution of NLC funds to several NPOs,” Kganyago said. –