As part of its intensified drive to combat fraud, theft and corruption across its business, State-owned Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) says it has successfully applied to the National Treasury for the blacklisting of seven companies implicated in serious unethical and unlawful conduct.

This follows forensic investigations supported by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), which uncovered a range of irregularities, including financial misconduct, kickback schemes, bribery, the theft of company assets, collusion and the submission of false information.

“TPT remains committed to upholding the principles of good governance and conducting its business with the highest standards of integrity, transparency and accountability. Unlawful conduct will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” says TPT CE Jabu Mdaki in a media release.

He adds that blacklisted companies would be restricted from doing business with TPT, Transnet and other public entities for the next ten years following their inclusion in the National Treasury list of restricted suppliers.

TPT says it has also instituted disciplinary action against employees who are believed to have colluded with the seven blacklisted companies.

Mdaki says that in reinventing itself for growth and making South Africa globally competitive, it is important for TPT to take firm action against employees, suppliers and all stakeholders who compromise the integrity of the business and exacerbate the cost of doing business.

“TPT has a mammoth task of enabling South Africa through our specialisation in maritime logistics where the country trades with over 100 markets in the world. As a team, we are united in understanding that we exist to serve and there’s no room for anyone who does not share in that mission.”

Through collaboration with relevant entities, TPT says it is working to recover all embezzled company monies from the implicated individuals.

Meanwhile, the Transnet group notes that it is continuing with investigations across its operating divisions.

TRIM ALLEGATIONS

Earlier this week, Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) suspended four employees based on similar allegations. Additionally, the entity says restrictions against implicated suppliers at TRIM are also proceeding.

Earlier this year, Transnet announced the suspension of nine employees implicated in alleged collusion with suppliers.

Six of these employees have now left Transnet’s employment because of disciplinary action instituted against them. The entity says disciplinary proceedings against the other employees are still in progress.

Transnet is appealing to members of the public who are aware of suspected fraud or any irregularity involving the business to report it immediately through the company’s designated whistleblowing channels.

“While the consequence management processes are proceeding, Transnet is also implementing systemic improvements to detect and prevent the recurrence of such malfeasances,” says Transnet.